Crvena Zvezda vs Igokea: Analysis and Prediction – Crvena Zvezda will host Igokea in the ABA League Round 14.
Crvena Zvezda vs Igokea Odds
Crvena Zvezda Team News
Crvena Zvezda have an excellent season in the ABA League, concluding the first part with a 12-1 record, with their only loss coming to Partizan. The situation is less favorable in the EuroLeague, but that’s a concern for another day as they now face Igokea in the regional competition.
During this week, Crvena Zvezda welcomed back the highly talented Nikola Topic to their ranks. He is set to make his debut against Igokea, and head coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos is expected to give him a significant role. The point guard position has been a concern for the red and whites, with few stepping up besides Milos Teodosic. Yago dos Santos played decently against Panathinaikos, but more was expected from the Brazilian. This game might also provide an opportunity for some bench players as Crvena Zvezda faces a double round in the EuroLeague, and key players may need rest.
Even with such minute distribution, Crvena Zvezda is the absolute favorite against Igokea, and anything less than a convincing double-digit victory would be surprising. A strong start is anticipated from the opening tip, leading to a significant advantage by halftime.
Igokea Team News
Igokea is going through a turbulent period both on and off the court. They were eliminated from the FIBA Champions League and currently hold a 9-4 record in the ABA League after losses to Cibona and Mega in the last two rounds. There have been roster changes as well.
In the past 10 days, Igokea parted ways with Stefan Moody, Nemanja Gordic and Nikola Tanaskovic, plus Zoran Nikolic is close to leave. This will provide more opportunities for younger players, as the team no longer faces significant pressure in the ABA League. Their survival is secured, and with nine wins so far, it’s almost certain they’ll be part of the playoffs. Veterans such as Dragan Milosavljevic, Marko Jeremic and Marko Josilo will play a crucial role in the second half of the season, primarily mentoring younger players like Ognjen Stankovic and Mihailo Boskovic.
Igokea is aware that this is not a game where they can expect a triumph. Even without the recent departures, it would have been challenging to compete. In this situation, a significant surprise would be if they don’t lose by a double-digit margin.
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Crvena Zvezda vs Igokea H2H
At the beginning of the new season, Crvena Zvezda defeated Igokea on the road by 81:63. This was the fourth consecutive win for the red and whites in the matchups between these clubs.
Absences and Injuries
Luka Mitrovic suffered an injury against Panathinaikos, and he might skip this match for Crvena Zvezda. Igokea has no injury concerns.
Crvena Zvezda vs Igokea Prediction
The situation suggests that Crvena Zvezda will approach the game seriously from the start. There might be a slight easing of rhythm and intensity in the fourth quarter, allowing Igokea to reduce the deficit. Therefore, it is predicted that the hosts will have a significant lead after 20 minutes of basketball.
Tip-off Time: Saturday, 30.12.2023, 20:00 CET
Prediction: Crvena Zvezda -8.5 (First Half)
Odds: 1.78
Sportsbook: 22Bet
*Odds are active at the time the article is published
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