NK Maribor vs NK Koper Prediction: Both teams likely to score in a high octane game

Maribor and Koper are scheduled to face off in a contest that offers much more than meets the eye, especially for soccer enthusiasts who appreciate the analytical side of the beautiful game, in the heartland of Slovenian football. This game will take place on week 27 of the Slovenia PrvaLiga on Sunday 17th March 2024 at 19:30 (GMT+3).

This game promises to be tactical, hence a precautional approach should be taken to avoid a straight win or loss for either side. However, both sides are expected to win. 

Maribor has participated in 23 games in this Prva Liga season, with 11 victories, 6 defeats, and 6 ties. Maribor, with 48% of games won and 26% of losses, is in a balanced position in the centre of the Prva Liga competition table. The team's season total of 2.9 points demonstrates their stability as they score 1.8 goals on average per game and give up 1 goal.

The club has scored 42 goals so far this season, with the first half seeing the most efficiency with 57% of the goals scored. Maribor scores 2.3 goals per game on average when they play at home. On the road, they score 1.4 goals. The defence continues to play solidly for the club, giving up 24 goals in total. The club has its biggest defensive obstacles in the first half, giving up 54% of the goals scored.

Maribor gives up 0.8 goals per game on average when they play at home, but 1.4 goals per game when they play away.

Koper will be looking to get back on track after losing to Radomlje in their previous PrvaLiga match. The numbers speak for themselves: in 6 of their last 6 games, Koper has allowed goals, allowing opponents to score 14 goals in total. Koper hasn't exactly been flawless on defence.

With a completely healthy roster to choose from, Koper manager Safet Hadžić has no reservations about any player's fitness going into this match.

Analyzing the data in more detail reveals that the overall match xG (expected goals) is an impressive 3.27, indicating a game with plenty of scoring possibilities. With an impressive 58% win rate and an average of 1.78 xG, Maribor's home performance figures stand out in particular. Koper's away advantage, however, appears to be offset by their defensive shortcomings, as seen by their -6 advantage score.

Hence, a win is expected for Maribor and BTTS indicating a potential scoreline of 2-1, 3-1, or 4-1.