Sparta Prague turn to Adam Karabec’s insight before OL Champions League qualifier | OneFootball

Sparta Prague will lean on Adam Karabec’s inside knowledge when they host OL in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg in Prague on Tuesday at 20:00. The former Lyon loanee, not retained by OL last season, will run the game as Sparta’s No 10 in Brian Priske’s 4-2-3-1.

As reported by L'Équipe, Priske has held long talks with the 23-year-old about Lyon’s training, playing and preparation, using his insight to complement Sparta’s analysis, with OL limited to friendlies so far.

Paulo Fonseca, who habitually keeps his tactical work under wraps, now faces a former insider familiar with his preferences and instructions for a crucial tie.

Andrew Irving said the squad have spoken to Karabec about individual opponents. He sought detail on Lyon’s midfield, received pointers he will keep to himself, and views that area as the main one to monitor.

Priske expects Karabec to be highly motivated, to showcase his qualities and perhaps to prove to OL’s coach that he belongs at the highest level. He described him as calm, focused and fully locked in on the task.

Captain Lukas Haraslin will support from the left, alongside summer signing Jonatan Braut Brunes, the 25-year-old cousin of Erling Haaland. The 1.88m left-footer is powerful, and Lyon’s defence will need to keep a close eye on him, with goalscoring appearing to run in the family.

Probable Sparta XI against OL: Surovcik, Suchomel, Sörensen, Sevinsky, Zeleny, Irving, Sochurek, Mercado, Karabec, Haraslin, Brunes. Coach: B. Priske.

Source: L'Équipe

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”