Dundalk FC vs Shelbourne FC Prediction: Expect a highly defensive approach from Shelbourne

In the upcoming 26th round of the League of Ireland Premiership, an intense match is on the horizon as Dundalk and Shelbourne clash at Oriel Park. This game holds particular significance as there's just a slim one-point difference between the two teams in the standings. The anticipation is palpable as we await the outcome of this highly competitive fixture. Here are some meticulously crafted tips for your consideration.

Form in all competitions: LWWDL

Dundalk experienced their initial league defeat in five matches earlier this month, succumbing to Bohemian. Simultaneously, they are engaged in the Europa Conference League qualifiers, awaiting the verdict of a crucial match that will determine their European prospects for the upcoming season. Looking back at their most recent five contests spanning various competitions, their record stands at 2 victories, 1 draw, and 2 losses.

Dundalk has executed a notable transformation in their recent performances. Their cumulative league performance comprises 11 triumphs, 6 stalemates, and 8 losses across 25 matches played. Spearheading the team's offensive endeavors, Patrick Hoban emerges as a pivotal figure, raising the possibility of witnessing his goal-scoring prowess on the upcoming Sunday.

Form in all competitions: WLDWD

Shelbourne has effectively recovered from their recent setbacks by securing a victory against Cork City in their latest league encounter. In their most recent five matches spanning various competitions, they have achieved 2 triumphs, and 2 draws, and suffered a lone defeat. Their upcoming match presents them with a formidable adversary.

Across the ongoing season, Shelbourne has been resolutely working to secure a mid-table position within the league. Their comprehensive league statistics encompass 9 wins, 11 draws, and 5 losses in the 25 matches they have contested. As they continue to enhance their performance, Shelbourne maintains its status as a team worth keeping an eye on in the league.

A critical look at the last 8 games between them produced 4 wins for Dundalk and 4 draws. Shelbourne have not won a game against Dundalk in their last 8 encounters.

Shelbourne exhibits a notably defensive approach in their gameplay, which has become evident in their outcomes when facing stronger adversaries. In 4 out of their last 6 matches, they concluded with a draw, suggesting the likelihood of another drawn result come Sunday evening. Our initial prediction, nonetheless, leans toward a win-or-draw scenario, coupled with an expectation of fewer than 4.5 goals for Dundalk.

Dundalk, on the other hand, is poised to pursue victory aggressively, intensifying their offensive maneuvers. This proactive stance is anticipated to translate into an increased count of corner kicks for Dundalk. Consequently, a plausible choice is to forecast Dundalk's superiority in the overall corner count, indicating their potential to secure more corners than their counterpart.