Viktoria Plzen vs Man United Europa League score predicted as hat-trick hero emerges

-Image Source: EA Sports

Manchester United aims to secure their third consecutive victory in the Europa League as they head to the Czech Republic to face Viktoria Plzen later today.

Following an impressive start where Ruben Amorim's team went without a loss in his initial three matches, United has now suffered two consecutive defeats, the latest being a 3-2 loss at home to Nottingham Forest. This disappointing outcome has placed United in 13th position in the league, just days before a significant matchup against Manchester City. However, the focus now shifts to the Europa League.

Following an unsuccessful start in their first three matches of the tournament, United has bounced back with victories in their last two games, including a convincing 4-0 triumph against Bodo/Glimt. This recent success puts United just one point away from securing a spot in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, tonight's opponents, Viktoria Plzen, have also managed two wins and three draws in the Europa League so far. They are currently in second place in the Czech league as well.

Can United secure an important three points in the Europa League later today? Let's explore.

Predicted Score: Viktoria Plzen Vs Man United

For this simulation, we utilized EA FC 25 and refreshed the team rosters to reflect the most current injuries and suspensions.

We expect the team to set up in a 3-4-1-2 formation, featuring the following starting players: Jedlicka in goal; a defense comprising Cerv, Dweh, and Hejda; Jemelka, Kalvach, Jirka, and Cadu in midfield; with Souare playing just behind the forwards; and Vydra alongside Sulc up front.

We anticipate that United may adopt a 3-4-2-1 formation, featuring the following players: Onana in goal; Yoro, Maguire, and Mazraoui in defense; Amad, Casemiro, Eriksen, and Malacia in midfield; and Fernandes and Mount supporting Rashford up front.

United came out strong, putting constant pressure on Viktoria Plzen's goalkeeper several times during the first 20 minutes, while the home team had difficulty getting out of their own half. The intensity from United was overwhelming for Plzen, and after 34 minutes, they managed to score and take the lead.

Marcus Rashford scored the opening goal for United - Credit: EA Sports

Mason Mount and Tyrell Malacia connected quickly, allowing Malacia to rush down the left side, leaving his defender behind as he sought options in the area. He found Marcus Rashford, who timed his run perfectly. Rashford hit the ball cleanly, sending it into the bottom corner to put the team up 1-0.

Shortly after the second half began, Rashford scored his second goal, along with Manchester United's second, thanks to a bit of fortune. Bruno Fernandes took a shot from distance that hit the post and landed right in front of Rashford, who easily finished from just a few yards out. It was turning out to be an incredible night for him, and with only 15 minutes left in the match, he secured his hat-trick with a stunning goal.

Marcus Rashford scored the third goal for United. -Credit: EA Sports

Casemiro regained the ball in an advanced position on the field, setting off a counterattack. He passed the ball to Rashford as they crossed the halfway line. The forward charged toward the Plzen defense and fired off an incredible shot from 30 yards away, brilliantly hitting the top corner of the net. This impressive goal capped off a successful visit to the Czech Republic for Amorim's team.

What are your predictions for the final score? Share your thoughts in the comments below!