There is no such thing as an easy game when playing in Europe’s top club competition. Things get even trickier when teams have to make a trip to hostile territory to play a game on the road, and they don’t much more difficult than a trip to the Russian capital. That is what Manchester United will be up against when they head to Moscow to face CSKA on Wednesday night.
CSKA Moscow can’t count themselves a little unlucky not to be in control of the group right now. They opened against Wolfsburg on the road, and were unfortunate to come away with at least a point. They dominated PSV in the second game, and were up 3-0 early. They had a chance to extend that lead, but missed a penalty which seemed to give the Dutch side a bit of life. The game ended 3-2, with CSKA hanging on a little at the end. This is a tough team to beat on their home field, as they are now unbeaten in 13 straight at home. Since losing to Wolfsburg in Matchday 1, CSKA have won 6 straight, which means they are going to be a tough nut for United to crack.
CSKA Moscow vs. Manchester United Soccer Odds and Game Preview
Venue: Arena Khimki, Khimki Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2015 Time: 2:45 PM ET TV: BT Sports Soccer Odds: United to win: 8/5, CSKA to win: 15/8, Draw: 21/10
Marouane @Fellaini expects a tactical battle for #mufc in Moscow: https://t.co/t3BTXvPhQg pic.twitter.com/WYKYkxxRDh
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 21, 2015
Group B is very much hanging in the balance after the first two rounds of games, with all 4 teams sitting on 3 points each. The winner of this one can take control of the group, which is why I would not be surprised to see United field an attacking formation. They will certainly be coming into this one on a high after dismantling Everton 3-0 over the weekend. The big line-up question will be whether or not Louis Van Gaal inserts Memphis Depay back into the side. The young Dutchman has not been in the best of form to start the season, and there are rumors that his attitude is in need of an adjustment. That said, his best performances have come on the European stage this season, so it would not be a huge surprise to see him back in the team.
CSKA Moscow can’t count themselves a little unlucky not to be in control of the group right now. They opened against Wolfsburg on the road, and were unfortunate to come away with at least a point. They dominated PSV in the second game, and were up 3-0 early. They had a chance to extend that lead, but missed a penalty which seemed to give the Dutch side a bit of life. The game ended 3-2, with CSKA hanging on a little at the end. This is a tough team to beat on their home field, as they are now unbeaten in 13 straight at home. Since losing to Wolfsburg in Matchday 1, CSKA have won 6 straight, which means they are going to be a tough nut for United to crack.
