FC Utrecht have historically struggled when facing Bundesliga sides typically conceding multiple goals and showing defensive vulnerabilities including a notable defeat to Hamburger SV back in 2005, where they conceded six goals over the two-legged tie.

Two key factors are likely to decide this match form and home versus away performances.

Freiburg’s form has been steady, remaining unbeaten in their last seven matches, while Utrecht continue to struggle this season, managing only one win in their last five , a 3:1 home victory over lower-ranked Volendam.

The second factor is home form, where Freiburg have been particularly strong this season, rarely losing on their own ground. In contrast, Utrecht’s away form is concerning across both the domestic league and Europa League, they’ve recorded two losses and two wins in their last five away matches, with those victories dating back to August.