Stuttgart host Viking at the MHPArena on September 9 in a compelling Champions League opener. The German side enters with strong European pedigree and domestic momentum following a 4-1 victory over Köln, though they suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat to Bayern beforehand. Stuttgart finished fourth in the Bundesliga last season and reached the Europa League round of 16, establishing themselves among Germany's stronger teams. However, they have never won their opening Champions League match, recording one draw and three defeats in such fixtures. Viking are making their Champions League league phase debut after overcoming Dinamo Zagreb in qualifying. The Norwegian champions sit second in their domestic league and remain unbeaten in their last five matches, though their defensive record is concerning with seven consecutive matches conceding goals. This will be the first competitive meeting between the sides.
Form and H2H
Stuttgart's recent form is mixed but attacking-minded. They have scored 9 goals in their last three official matches and seen more than 3.5 goals in every match this season. At home, Stuttgart won 6 of their last 10 matches with an average of 3.47 goals for and 1.37 against. Viking arrive with confidence from their unbeaten domestic run but show defensive vulnerabilities. Away from home, Viking won 6 of their last 10 matches, averaging 2.00 goals for and 1.10 against. Crucially, both teams have consistently been involved in high-scoring encounters: 7 of Viking's last 8 matches finished with more than 2.5 goals, while both teams scored in Viking's last 7 matches and in 5 of Stuttgart's last 7 matches.
Best Bet
Both Teams to Score offers genuine appeal given the attacking tendencies of both sides and Stuttgart's defensive inconsistency. The hosts have conceded in nine of their last ten matches despite their scoring prowess, while Viking have shown they can find the net even in away fixtures against strong opposition, as evidenced by their 2-2 draw with Dinamo Zagreb in qualifying. Stuttgart's recent matches consistently produce open football with goals at both ends, and Viking's current attacking confidence suggests they will not sit passively. Odds available: Melbet 1.22, 1xBet 1.26, 1Win 1.22, Mostbet 1.24, 22Bet 1.257.
Odds to Watch
Total Over 3.5 Goals represents the standout market. Stuttgart have scored in every match this season and average 3.47 goals at home, while Viking participate regularly in high-scoring affairs. The combination of Stuttgart's attacking rhythm and both teams' defensive vulnerabilities creates a strong case for goals flowing freely. With both sides arriving in good attacking form and neither defence completely reliable, an entertaining encounter with multiple goals is realistic. Odds available: Melbet 1.22, 1xBet 1.26, 1Win 1.22, Mostbet 1.24, 22Bet 1.257. Stuttgart to Win is also worth considering given their home advantage and experience, though at shorter odds: Melbet 1.22, 1xBet 1.26, 1Win 1.22, Mostbet 1.24, 22Bet 1.257.


















