FC Lahti vs SJK Prediction: SJK's strong defensive record and recent form give them an edge

The clash between SJK and Lahti promises to be an interesting battle, with both teams aiming for victory. SJK's strong defensive record and recent form give them an edge, but Lahti will be determined to cause an upset. Football fans can anticipate an exciting match as these two sides compete for crucial points in the league. You'll find previews, possible starting 11, expert tips, and odds below.

FC Lahti

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FC Lahti's performance in the Veikkausliiga this season has been underwhelming, resulting in their current position as the 3rd from bottom team. With an 18-point deficit behind SJK after just 13 games, they find themselves in a challenging situation.

At home, Lahti's recent form has been disappointing, losing three out of their last four league matches. However, they did manage to secure a surprising 1-0 victory against HJK in their previous outing. This win was a much-needed boost for Lahti, as it was only their second victory in their last ten games.

Head coach Mannila is expected to maintain the same lineup that secured the crucial win against HJK. With no reported injury or suspension concerns, he will be looking to build on the team's recent success and continue their fight to climb up the league standings.

Despite Lahti's struggles this season, they will be determined to build on their positive result against HJK and pose a challenge to SJK. The home advantage and their recent win could provide them with some confidence, but they will need to deliver a strong performance to overcome the league leaders.

SJK

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SJK's strong start to the Veikkausliiga campaign has seen them excel away from home, a significant improvement compared to their struggles on the road last season. Their unbeaten record in six away matches, including three wins and three draws, highlights their newfound resilience.

One key factor in SJK's success has been their defensive improvement. They have kept clean sheets in five of their six away games, conceding just one goal in their most recent match against Ilves. This defensive solidity has been a marked improvement compared to last season, when they managed only two clean sheets away from home.

Sitting joint top of the league alongside KuPS, albeit with two games in hand, SJK will be confident of claiming all three points against Lathi. With 31 points from 14 league games, they have shown their title credentials and will be eager to maintain their momentum.

However, SJK will have to cope without their top scorer, Jaime Moreno, who is suspended after receiving a red card in their previous match against Ilves. In his absence, Jeremiah Streng will be tasked with leading the attacking line for the visitors.

As SJK look to continue their strong away form and secure another positive result, they will be aware that Lathi will present a challenge. Lathi will be determined to halt SJK's unbeaten away run and secure a result of their own. Football fans can anticipate an intriguing clash between two competitive sides vying for the valuable points on offer.

Possible Starting 11

FC Lahti - M. Ljubić, T. Penninkangas, J. Pirttijoki, A. Kabashi, D. Koskipalo, Bubacar Djaló, T. Jäntti, E. Virta, A. Zeqiri, S. Pasanen, Matheus Alves.

SJK - O. Ejeheri, M. Hrádecký, Murilo, V. Tikkanen, T. Yegbe, J. Dunwoody, V. Gasc, N. Laine, K. Ofori, J. Streng, S. Obioha.

Expert Betting Tips

Football fans can anticipate an intriguing battle between these two teams, with SJK aiming to extend their unbeaten away record and Lahti seeking to build on their recent victory and improve their position in the league. Both sides will find the back of the net but I see the visitors claiming all the points at full time.

• BTTS for 2.00 odds
• W2 for 1.87 odds
• Over 2.5 for 2.19 odds