The upcoming clash between University College Dublin (UCD) and Longford Town in the Ireland First Division promises to be an intriguing encounter. Scheduled for May 9, 2025, this match will see two teams with contrasting forms and ambitions face off at the UCD Bowl. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the prediction, betting tips, analysis, and statistics to provide you with a well-rounded view of the game.
Match Overview
Date: May 9, 2025
Time: 18:45 UTC
Venue: UCD Bowl, Dublin
UCD currently sits in 6th place in the league standings, while Longford Town is struggling in 9th position. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs this season, making this match a crucial one for their respective campaigns.
Head-to-Head Statistics
The head-to-head record between UCD and Longford Town shows a competitive history. In their last 16 matches, UCD has won 8 times, Longford Town has won 3 times, and 5 matches have ended in a draw. UCD has scored 22 goals in these encounters, while Longford Town has netted 19 goals.
Recent Matches:
- April 12, 2025: Longford Town 0 – 1 UCD
- October 18, 2024: UCD 2 – 2 Longford Town
- July 27, 2024: Longford Town 1 – 2 UCD
- May 3, 2024: UCD 1 – 0 Longford Town
- March 29, 2024: Longford Town 1 – 2 UCD
Current Form
UCD:
- Last 5 Matches: W, L, L, W, L
- Goals Scored: 6
- Goals Conceded: 13
Longford Town:
- Last 5 Matches: L, L, D, L, W
- Goals Scored: 9
- Goals Conceded: 22
UCD has shown a slightly better form compared to Longford Town, with two wins in their last five matches. Longford Town, on the other hand, has struggled with consistency, managing only one win in their last five outings.
Betting Tips and Analysis
- Match Winner: UCDGiven their recent form and head-to-head record, UCD is favored to win this match. They have a home advantage and have been more consistent compared to Longford Town. The probability of a UCD win is around 47%.
- Both Teams to Score: NoIn recent encounters, both teams have not always found the back of the net. UCD has kept clean sheets in 44% of their matches against Longford Town. Additionally, Longford Town has struggled to score consistently, making this a viable betting option.
- Total Goals: Under 2.5The majority of matches between these two teams have seen fewer than 2.5 goals. UCD’s defensive solidity and Longford Town’s scoring woes suggest that this trend is likely to continue.
- Correct Score: 2-0 to UCDBased on the analysis, a 2-0 victory for UCD seems a plausible outcome. UCD’s ability to score and Longford Town’s defensive vulnerabilities support this prediction.
Key Players to Watch
UCD:
- Jake Doyle: A consistent performer for UCD, Doyle has been instrumental in their midfield, providing both defensive cover and attacking impetus.
- Adam Verdon: Known for his goal-scoring ability, Verdon will be a key player to watch in this match.
Longford Town:
- Ciaran Behan: Behan has been one of the few bright spots for Longford Town this season, contributing with crucial goals and assists.
- F. Campbell: A solid defender, Campbell’s performance will be vital in keeping UCD’s attackers at bay.
Statistical Insights
Possession and Passing:
- UCD tends to dominate possession, averaging around 55% per game.
- Longford Town, on the other hand, has struggled to maintain possession, averaging around 45%.
Defensive Records:
- UCD has conceded an average of 1.00 goals per game, showcasing their defensive strength.
- Longford Town has conceded an average of 1.92 goals per game, highlighting their defensive frailties.
Attacking Records:
- UCD has scored an average of 0.46 goals per game, indicating a need for improvement in their attacking play.
- Longford Town has scored an average of 0.92 goals per game, showing a slightly better attacking record.
Betting Odds
Match Winner Odds:
- UCD: 1.92
- Draw: 3.27
- Longford Town: 3.77
Both Teams to Score Odds:
Total Goals Odds:
- Over 2.5: 2.42
- Under 2.5: 1.81
Correct Score Odds:
Conclusion
The upcoming match between UCD and Longford Town is set to be an exciting encounter with significant implications for both teams. UCD, with their home advantage and better form, are favorites to win. However, Longford Town will be eager to turn their fortunes around and climb up the league table.
For bettors, the key tips include backing UCD to win, betting on both teams not to score, and predicting a low-scoring game with under 2.5 goals. The correct score prediction of 2-0 to UCD offers a good balance of risk and reward.
As always, it’s important to gamble responsibly and consider all factors before placing any bets. Enjoy the game and may the best team win!