MSV Duisburg - SV Darmstadt 98

Darmstadt set to continue their unbeaten run

TEAM NEWS

Newly promoted Duisburg almost have all their players available, with the exception of the long-term injured Zlatko Janjic and Tim Albutat.

Darmstadt’s coach Torsten Frings will only be without the long-term injured Peter Niemeyer and can count on a strong squad for this game.

Duisburg

Suspended: None

Doubtful: Baris Ozbek (back)

Injured/unavailable: Zlatko Janjic (knee), Tim Albutat (ankle)

Darmstadt

Suspended: None

Doubtful: None

Injured/unavailable: Peter Niemeyer (heel)

MATCH PREVIEW

MAIN PREDICTION: AWAY WIN

Although Duisburg struggled in their first away game they produced a good performance – and surprisingly celebrated their first victory of the campaign against strong hosts Heidenheim. The team showed character as they fell behind in the 59^th minute, but responded with two goals within the next seven minutes. Following this first win they now have an even league record with one win, one draw and one defeat. The newly promoted side have proven that they can compete at this level and more surprises are sure to follow.

After exiting the cup when losing 3-1 against fellow second-tier club Regensburg two weeks ago, Darmstadt managed to return to winning ways again this weekend. They claimed an easy 3-0 home win against St. Pauli who never found a way into the game. With two wins and one draw they are now in the top five and are two points behind leaders Bielefeld. Following their disappointing performance in the cup, their full focus will be on the league now and if they continue with this way of playing it could be a strong and successful season for Darmstadt.

Although one could easily side with Duisburg here, I prefer Darmstadt right now, who have been playing excellent football. They are very hard to beat and will be full of ideas when it comes to breaking Duisburg’s defence. Away win.

SECOND PREDICTION: HALF TIME HAD – DRAW

Duisburg and Darmstadt have both registered just one first-half goal so far and I expect a low-scoring first 45 minutes here too. Overall both teams are more active in the second half, with Duisburg scoring two and Darmstadt netting four. I expect a draw at half time.

HEAD TO HEAD

Duisburg have lost the last five league matches against Darmstadt by conceding 12 goals and scoring two. Their last two meetings occurred in Germany’s third tier.