The Swiss Super League is set to kick off with an exciting clash between Young Boys and newly-promoted Sion.
This match, taking place at the Stadion Wankdorf, promises to deliver intense action as both teams aim to start their 2024-25 campaign on a high note.
Match Preview
Young Boys' Dominance
Young Boys enter this match as the reigning champions of the Swiss Super League, having finished 12 points clear of their nearest rivals, Lugano, last season.
Their dominance in the league is evident, with the team securing the top spot in six of the last seven years.
Last season, they showcased impressive form at home, dropping only 10 points and collecting 47 from 19 matches at Stadion Wankdorf.
Sion's Remarkable Comeback
After a disappointing 2022-23 season that saw them relegated, Sion made a swift return to the top flight by winning the Swiss Challenger League.
Their away form was particularly impressive, with 12 wins and only one loss in 18 matches, conceding just eight goals.
This formidable away record will give Sion confidence as they face a significant step-up in competition against Young Boys.
Team News
Young Boys
Young Boys will be without centre-back Loris Benito, who is still recovering from a cruciate ligament injury.
New signing Tanguy Zoukrou from Troyes might make his competitive debut. Marvin Keller, back from a loan spell, will compete with David von Ballmoos for the goalkeeper position.
Key players like Joel Monteiro and Lewin Blum, who contributed significantly last season, remain in the squad.
Sion
Sion will rely on the experience of their top scorer Dejan Sorgic, who netted 16 goals in the Challenger League last season.
Ylyas Chouaref, a major contributor with 18 goal involvements, will be a key player in their attacking setup.
Defensively, the veteran presence of Reto Ziegler will be crucial as Sion aims to solidify their backline.
Predicted Lineups
Young Boys Starting XI: Von Ballmoos; Blum, Camara, Zoukrou, Persson; Males, Lauper, Lakomy, Monteiro; Elia, Ganvoula.
Sion Starting XI: Fayulu; Lavanchy, Schmied, Ziegler, Diouf; Kabacalman, Kronig, Chipperfield, Chouaref, Berdayes; Sorgic.
Prediction
Despite Sion's strong form and momentum from their promotion campaign, Young Boys' exceptional home record and overall squad strength make them favourites for this clash.
Our Prediction: Young Boys 2-1 Sion