VfB Stuttgart vs Viking prediction 09.09.2026 | Champions League

Stuttgart prepares for this one on the back of a vital, morale-boosting 4-1 victory against FC Köln. The Swabians desperately needed that response after enduring an embarrassing 5-1 thrashing against Bayern Munich on opening day.

Sebastian Hoeneß's men have experienced a rollercoaster start, looking completely exposed defensively before bouncing back in style. It's a massive relief for fans given their recent continental absence.

They spent last season competing in the UEFA Europa League rather than the premier competition, making this elite return feel even sweeter. Their home form is a genuine weapon.

Following that emphatic Köln win, they've turned the MHPArena into a fortress, remaining unbeaten in their last five home games. Vital new signing Bilal El Khannouss has already hit the ground running, scoring a beautiful opener in his first major league start to establish his creative importance.

While injuries to crucial squad members like Tiago Tomás and Dan-Axel Zagadou complicate the lineup, I still think they have way too much quality for Viking. This is their game to lose.

Viking enters this one on the back of a grueling 1-1 draw against Sandefjord. The Dark Blues didn't look their best on Friday. They needed a dramatic, 93rd-minute equalizer from Henrik Bjørdal to salvage a point.

Morten Jensen's men are currently soaring in domestic league play, having locked down second place in the Eliteserien with a rampant run of form.

Last season was rough. They missed out on the big stage entirely, watching European competitions from home. Now, they've completely flipped the script by shockingly knocking out Dinamo Zagreb in the playoffs.

Their form on the road remains a mixed bag. Viking managed only one win from their last four games on the road. Star striker Peter Christiansen has been the absolute main man, racking up 13 league goal contributions so far.

Long-term knee injuries to key defender Martin Roseth and forward Veton Berisha don't help, but Jesper Daland is available despite his sending off in the Eliteserience last week.