Fortuna Düsseldorf - VfB Stuttgart

What to mention about Fortuna Düsseldorf, sure they played a good first half but started with 2 loses in a row into second half. Both defeats were a bit unlucky above all the first match against direct opponent against relegation FC Augsburg where two huge mistakes from defender and keeper allowed Augsburg two easy goals and therefore to win this match. Next one was the derby in Gladbach and it was more or less the same as with an own goal and a fast second goal against them they decided the match again more self as their opponent. They played a good second half and showed that they are able to play on a high level who allow them to win matches as well. Of course as they tried to push and go for the equalizer it was a lot of space for Gladbach but they missed a lot of good opportunities or keeper Giefer saved big. After two matches without any luck, it would be interesting to see them again in front of their excellent fans and the atmosphere should be great again there. They got some new players but only central back Latka stands in starting lineup. The others have to improve and push and hold the pressure high to get a chance. Not much changes expected but hopefully they can get back to their last performances like in the end of 2012 where they played some great matches above all Reisinger made the different. Sure they are still 8 points ahead of the drop zone and maybe this can still hold the pressure a bit away but sooner or later they should collect some points as 35+ are needed in the end although the last three are very weak this season and it is a huge advantage for Fortuna. With Langeneke, Bruno Soares, Voronin, Cha, Nando Rafael and Garbuschwski are some not available but these guys are out longer now and should not be such imp. at the moment.

Maybe they talked a bit to much about the good position they have at winter break and maybe the trouble about coach Labbadia who does not sign a new contract so far. His future is still undecided but they hope to come out with better news in some days. Nevertheless they lost the good position after 2 loses in a row and fall down. Maybe because of some problems where important players were suspended or maybe out with injury. This would be not much better as with Harnik they have again one important man not available after his yellow/red card against Bayern Munich. Also they lost a lot of their good play from first half as the performances where not very good 2013 so far. Additional some of their players are not concentrated enough and made some big mistakes and allowed even goals against them. If you have not the best day or give a little bit less on some day it is very hard to get anything on such a high level as 1.BL. If coach Labbadia does not find the right words, tactic it would be hard to turn things around above all if they continue like past seasons. Stuttgart is well known for this … if they played a good first half, they failed almost in second and also be reversed. According to news they miss some players as with Kuzmanovic sold to Inter Mailand while Harnik is suspended, Boka at African Cup, and also Cacau long term injured, Bah, Hemlein and Audel are not so important anayway. Fresh injured is defender Niedermeier who had some problems after trainings session.

Both teams started 2013 with two loses and both made a lot of mistakes therefore it would be very interesting which team can reduce it or take advantage. Overall I expect a fast matches where both teams try to win but with some advantage for home side with their fans in back. And as they are not so stable in defensive both, goals are come for sure too. 

Recommend Pick: Fortuna Düsseldorf AHC +0,25 @ 2,05 + OVER 2,25 @ 1,71 (both 3 Units)