This game turns on whether Copenhagen's pressure reaches the box before Midtjylland's rebuilt defence settles. Copenhagen created repeated close shots at Brøndby, while Midtjylland can break into Etim and Iheanacho from the first clean escape. Wide space and second balls should matter more than long spells of possession. The first goal will shape how each coach uses the options on the bench.
Robert, Elyounoussi and Král can press Midtjylland's first pass and attack the outside of the back three. Copenhagen reached the box repeatedly at Brøndby, and Cornelius added a finishing presence from the bench. Midtjylland's answer runs through Billing's release to Etim or Iheanacho behind the advancing fullbacks.
Midtjylland's last competitive defence included Olafsson, Kristensen, Jensen and Bak; all are unavailable for this match. Diao and Bech are in the squad after returning in a friendly, while Maxsø could make his competitive debut and Bakker could take goal. Copenhagen lose Madsen to illness, but Delaney and the main wide attackers are available.
Copenhagen should have early chances to turn recoveries into close shots and keep supplying the box if the match stays level. Midtjylland's direct breaks will keep the contest active, yet their changed defensive unit gives Copenhagen the stronger route to repeated final contact. That's why I'm siding with FC Copenhagen.
