Viktoria Pizen vs FC Porto

A fascinating tactical battle between Europe's stingiest defense and one of its most in-form attacks takes place at the Doosan Arena today, Thursday, January 22, 2026, as Viktoria Plzeň hosts FC Porto. Kick-off is set for 17:45 GMT (12:45 ET / 18:45 local).

This is a critical fixture for the top-eight race. Porto currently occupies the final automatic qualification spot in 8th place (13 points). A win today would put them on the verge of skipping the play-off round. Viktoria Plzeň sits in 14th place (10 points) and remains one of only four teams still unbeaten in the competition, though their progress has been slowed by a series of draws.

Match Information

Viktoria Plzeň: The "Impenetrable" Wall

Managed by Martin Hyský, Plzeň has become the ultimate "frustration machine" in the Europa League. They boast the best defensive record in the competition, having conceded only 2 goals across six matches. However, they arrive following three consecutive 0–0 draws in the UEL—a run that has secured points but failed to move them into the top eight.

Team News and Selection:

• Defensive Crisis: Plzeň faces a nightmare at the back. Václav Jemelka (red card) and Sampson Dweh (yellow card accumulation) are both suspended. With Jan Paluska injured, the Czech side is missing three starting defenders.

• January Departures: The squad has been weakened by the winter window sales of Rafiu Durosinmi, Svetozar Markovic, and goalkeeper Martin Jedlicka.

• Key Player: Matěj Vydra will lead the line, looking to break a goal drought that has plagued the team during their month-long winter break from domestic action.

• Predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Wiegele; Hejda, Červ, Havel; Memic, Valenta, Kalvach, Kopic; Vydra, Šulc; Adu.

FC Porto: Farioli's Red-Hot Dragons

Under the guidance of Francesco Farioli, Porto is arguably the most dangerous team in the tournament right now. They are currently on a 9-match winning streak across all competitions and haven't conceded a single goal in their last five outings. Farioli’s tactical revolution has combined Porto’s traditional aggression with a new-found defensive discipline.

Team News and Selection:

• Samu on Fire: Striker Samu has netted 9 goals in his last 9 matches and is the primary threat to Plzeň’s unbeaten run.

• Absences: Porto is without Luuk de Jong (knee), Nehuén Pérez (Achilles), and André Franco. Zaidu Sanusi is also a doubt as he returns from international duty.

• Ineligible: Legendary defender Thiago Silva, who rejoined the club in January, is not registered for the league phase and will watch from the stands.

• Predicted XI (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; Martim Fernandes, Otávio, Kiwior, Alberto Costa; Alan Varela, Gabri Veiga, Froholdt; Pepê, Samu, Borja Sainz.

? League Phase Standings (Top 16)

Tactical Analysis and Prediction

This match is a classic "immovable object vs. irresistible force" scenario. Plzeň's primary goal will be to preserve their unbeaten status and exploit the fact that they have scored five unanswered goals before half-time in earlier rounds. However, with their two best defenders suspended, they may finally buckle under the weight of Porto's sustained pressure.

Farioli’s side is incredibly confident away from home, having gone unbeaten in their last seven competitive trips. Expect Porto to dominate the ball (averaging 58% possession) and eventually find a way through via the clinical Samu.

Final Score Prediction: Viktoria Plzeň 0–1 FC Porto