Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB Prediction and Betting Tips for this crucial Europa League match on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The action starts at 20:00 GMT at the Stadion Maksimir in Zagreb. Fans can catch the broadcast live on TNT Sports and Discovery+ as the pressure mounts. Check out Football Stats And Tips for more.
Currently sitting in 25th and 27th place, these teams are desperate for a win to reach the top 24. Dinamo has lost three straight European games, while FCSB recently beat Feyenoord in a thriller. It is anyone's game, but the atmosphere in Croatia will be absolutely electric tonight.
Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB Key Facts and Stats
Dinamo Zagreb has the joint third worst defensive record in the Europa League league phase currently.
The Croatian side has not played a competitive fixture since December 20, causing potential rustiness.
Dion Beljo remains a threat for Dinamo having recorded two goals and an assist already.
FCSB secured a dramatic victory over Feyenoord recently to keep their playoff hopes very much alive.
Darius Olaru returns to the Romanian lineup after serving a one match suspension in Europe.
The visitors are struggling domestically, currently sitting in ninth place in the Romanian top flight.
Very spectacular team with 100% of home matches ending over 2.5 goals.
High corner production with an average of 5.0 corners won per home match.
Calm defensive approach with a low average of 1.33 cards received per match.
Strong discipline in challenges committing only 10.0 fouls per game at home.
- Dinamo Zagreb's Weaknesses
One of the leakiest defenses conceding an average of 2.33 goals at home.
Very weak attack with a poor average of only 9.67 shots per match.
Low offensive accuracy with a poor average of 3.33 shots on target.
League Position
27
+ FCSB's Strengths
Efficient offensive line with an average of 1.4 goals scored per away match.
Aggressive and spectacular style with 100% of away games over 3.5 cards.
Good offensive pressure resulting in 5.0 shots on target per match.
Dominant play in the opponent half winning 11.6 fouls per game.
- FCSB's Weaknesses
Vulnerable defense on set pieces conceding 5.8 corners per away match.
Low offensive corner generation with only 3.2 corners won per match.
Match Preview
Dinamo Zagreb is feeling the heat right now. Their domestic lead has shrunk to just one point, making every game feel like a final. They started the European season with a bang but that early energy has faded into three straight defeats against top tier opponents. Still, they are fighters.
The long winter break might be their biggest enemy here. It is hard to keep that competitive edge when you haven't played a real game for a month. Mario Kovacevic has to figure out how to wake up his squad before the whistle blows at the Maksimir stadium.
Defensively, things have been a bit of a mess for the Croatians lately. Giving up 10 goals in three games is not what you want to see. They need to tighten things up because even though their cards are low, they are just leaving too much space open.
FCSB is in a weird spot, currently sitting ninth in Romania. It is almost like they are two different teams depending on the competition. Elias Charalambous knows his job might depend on getting a result here after their disappointing domestic loss against FC Arges last Friday night.
The return of Darius Olaru is a massive boost for the visitors. He adds that bit of magic and composure in the middle of the park that they missed during his suspension. If they can replicate the heart they showed against Feyenoord, they will be very dangerous.
This match is going to be frantic because both sides know a draw doesn't really help much. FCSB has played more recently, which could give them a physical edge. Even so, everyone should consult the latest Football Stats And Tips before deciding which way this European battle swings.
FCSB owner Gigi Becali has officially delegated transfer authority to Mihai Stoica, granting the Board Chairman control over a 6-million-euro budget. Becali believes no current Superliga players fit the champions' roster, shifting the recruitment strategy toward international markets. Following the free signings of Andre Duarte and Ofri Arad, Stoica will now identify and approve all further winter reinforcements to strengthen the squad’s competitive edge.
J. Cisotti, D. Olaru F. Tănase, V. Chiricheș, M. Toma
FW
D. Bîrligea
OUT
M. Popescu(OUT),
I. Cercel(OUT),
A. Stoian(OUT)
Referee
Sander van der Eijk
Avg. cards
3.28
0.15
Prediction
Dinamo Zagreb to Win @1.64
Dinamo Zagreb enters this fixture with a significant home advantage at the Maksimir. Despite their recent European losses, they maintain a disciplined home record with only 1.33 cards per match. Their ability to win 5.0 corners suggests they will sustain pressure against an FCSB side that concedes 5.8 corners away.
Furthermore, 100% of Dinamo's home games have seen over 2.5 goals, indicating they are comfortable finding the net in Zagreb. While FCSB averages 1.4 goals on the road, their domestic struggles in ninth place suggest a lack of confidence that Dinamo's veteran European players can effectively exploit on Thursday.
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FAQ – Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB Prediction
Who is the favorite to win between Dinamo Zagreb and FCSB?
Dinamo Zagreb are favorites due to home advantage, though their lack of recent match fitness makes this a potentially close encounter.
Where can I watch Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB live?
The Dinamo Zagreb vs FCSB Europa League match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and Discovery+.
What time does the match kick off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 (GMT) on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Is Darius Olaru playing for FCSB?
Yes, Darius Olaru is expected to return to the starting lineup after serving his European suspension.
Alexandru Florin is a football betting expert, providing tips and accumulator predictions for xpertstats.com since 2022. With a strong focus on data-driven analysis, he delivers well-researched insights and reliable advice for bettors aiming for long-term profit.
