Recap
Ostrava strengthened their squad during the summer and undoubtedly possess individual quality, but expectations should remain realistic. Despite the new arrivals, there has been little evidence to suggest they are ready to establish themselves as genuine contenders for a top-four finish. Their performances throughout pre-season lacked consistency, losing by some mediocre teams like Trencin and legnica and while the appointment of coach Skuhravý could prove beneficial in the long term, such transformations rarely happen overnight. They opened the campaign with a narrow 0-1 away victory over relegation candidates ZlÃn, but that result alone is unlikely to answer the broader questions surrounding the team’s overall level. Off the pitch, concerns also remain over the club’s sporting management, which has been widely criticized after a disappointing previous season.
Slavia Praha have begun the defense of their league title in emphatic fashion. Their dominant 5-1 victory over Slovácko highlighted an evolution in their style of play, with quicker combinations through midfield, greater attacking tempo and a stronger emphasis on dynamic one-on-one situations. With arguably the deepest and strongest squad in the league, Slavia once again look like the team to beat in the title race.
The visitors also enjoy a commanding historical advantage in this fixture. Slavia are unbeaten in the last 18 meetings with Ostrava, recording 15 victories and three draws, a record that underlines both the difference in quality and their consistent dominance in this match.