Nijmegen's wide pressure will put Groningen's first pass and second clearances under strain. Liverpool can similarly press Brighton high, while Brighton can attack the space left behind a poor Liverpool outlet. Both matches hinge on whether the side under pressure can make a clean first release and then finish the defensive possession.
Nijmegen made many box entries against Sittard, but its four-goal finish in Zagreb came from fewer good chances than the score suggests. Its main attackers played heavy minutes there before this quick return, while Groningen's expected back four all played against Ajax and Van Bergen and Willumsson scored. Groningen have had more recovery time and can release those finishers against Nijmegen's high line. That's why I'm siding with Groningen to get a result.
Liverpool have dangerous wide runners and Wirtz can change their central supply, but their first pass and late defending have also allowed opponents a way back. Brighton's Gomez and De Cuyper were rested for the last European game, giving Groß fresh outlets against Liverpool's depleted right-side cover; Bradley and Frimpong missed Liverpool's last match and Muñoz remains uncertain. Brighton can attack from a cutback or a Groß restart and have shown they can stop the first opposing shot. That's why I'm siding with Brighton to take something from the match.
