2.BL update from Friday

Jahn Regensburg - SV Sandhausen

Both teams under huge pressure because both need the win or the points here. This is almost a must win match and who win this encounter can hope to avoid relegation, the loser must take in mind more and more that was probably it. Regensburg showed some uptrend in the past matches although they lost at home against Braunschweig and Hertha but on the road they beat Bochum and got a point in Cottbus last weekend. Coach Smuda changed a bit his system but it is not know if he counts on the same again. He changed also a lot of players and former players like Müller, Wiesmeyer, Sembolo and so on not in the starting lineup anymore. On the other side Sandhausen with a good match against Pauli, won deserved 4-1 but lost the upcoming two matches very easy. Both 1-3 in Dresden and at home vs. Paderborn. Coach Boysen said that he wants to change a bit as he was not very pleased about the performances in both matches. They gave to many opportunities away and also let miss their power.


Union Berlin - Erzgebirge Aue

Winter-break is over and Union fall down, they were on a good 4th place but could not win 2013 so far. They are down to 8th place now but their goal is place 5-7 what is still reachable. They played not their best soccer in their past two matches but they had a lot of imp. missing as well. Above all their hero in midfield Mattuschka is needed for their play. He gave the team much more stability and can create some dangerousness with his good assists or free kicks. Also Parensen and Kohlmann was not available while Schönheim had to pass due to flue. Only Kohlmann miss again, the others are available now. Aue lost 3 matches in a row before they got a draw against Aalen last weekend and collected their first point 2013. They had a lot of problems with injured and ill players in the past that they were not able to get more. For this match almost all players are back and coach Baumann can choose from almost all, the only unavailable player is suspended striker Sylvestr.


SC Paderborn - Energie Cottbus

The start was not very good as they lost vs. Braunschweig at home to beginning of 2013 but turn things fast around and they are on a 3 matches winning streak now. They overcome all their opponents and on a good way to be safe as soon as possible. Their home performances were not very good overall as they collected much more points on the road as at home. They have some problems if they must come and make the match while on the other side they open a lot of space to their opponents. Strohdiek miss with flu here. Cottbus very bad 2013 so far, they are not able to win against bottom team Regensburg, although they scored their first goal after many minutes. But the performance was so awful that coach Bommer made a lot of noise. He were not very pleased about his players and if they bring again such a performance on the pitch it can happen something ..... They are without suspended Börner, Stiepermann, Brenzska and Brinkmann.

Bor. M'Gladbach - Borussia Dortmund

A lot has changed at Gladbach and their coach Favre this season. They were known as one of the best defensive playing teams last season but they lost this style, maybe because they lost important players like Dante and Neustädter and maybe could not compensate these. Nevertheless they had huge problems with teams with a good offensive in the past. This is fact and provable as well. One of the best example should be their last league home match against Leverkusen. They were able to score 3 goals but could not win as their defensive had huge problems with the quick offensive players from Leverkusen. It was almost the same in EL against Lazio but they made a lot of mistakes there anyway. But not enough, they travelled to Rome, played there an important EL match against Lazio on Thursday and three days later they host the next big team. When they welcome Borussia Dortmund on Sunday they play their 5 match in 16 days now. Of course they are not as fresh as they should be and the problems are getting bigger because Favre has not so much to choose from to rotate much. In this case it would be very interesting how tired they are or whether they get it regulated. Additional problems are Herrmann is suspended and Arrango seems not to be fit in the right time. And after the EL match changes are possible what help them not much as they need time to get used to.

2013 is very good for Dortmund so far and they are on a good way. They want to reach second place as Bayern Munich is to far away to catch them yet. They played some good matches and they are always able to score some goals although they are without strikers now. With Lewandowski and Schieber both strikers are suspended and not available but nevertheless they have huge weapons in their rows anyway to compensate this. But what I read wants coach Klopp count on 2nd team striker Bajner who scored 4 goals in 11 matches in 3rd league already. This man is 22 years old and was on bench in last match. But overall Reus, Götze, Kuba (doubtful) and Gündogan can make the difference anyway. Their form is very good and they have so much fun to play as they are running and passing so good and it looks all very easy. Thus they are always able to put the opponent under pressure or to pose problems. Over 90 minutes they are not to control as they are to good and to dangerous therefore they get some opportunities to score some for sure.

The advantage should be clear for this encounter. Over one week rest for Dortmund and only to focus and prepare for this match while Gladbach played an important match in EL and should be very tired after a lot of matches in the past anyway. This can be a huge disadvantage as I mentioned already that their defensive had a lot of problems with quick offensive players and almost all from Dortmund are in this category. Moreover Gladbach defenders are all very large, which is not exactly of advantage against small and agile players from Dortmund. If we add up all the reasons that should necessarily be goals in this game. In the current 10 home games Gladbach could always score at least one and Dortmund away too. Moreover, I think we drive with all this information best with a bet on OVER. GL

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,25 @ 1,70 (3 Units)

Energie Cottbus - Jahn Regensburg

At winter break there were many hope in Cottbus because they had a very good position but 2013 they were not such successful as they keep promotion hopes alive. For the return into the fight they have to win this but with only 2 points collected and not a single goal scored in the past matches they have to improve a lot. They have to start a serie to close the gap. But not only Cottbus need a run, also Regensburg who stands at the bottom of the table where they are already 5 points behind place 16. Dynamo Dresden. They should not lose because next week they face relegation opponent Sandhausen in their stadium and can get closer. But nevertheless they must play first and if they are not able to get something their hopes die even.

One of the biggest problems from Energie Cottbus is their offensive where they were not able to score 2013. Above all their top striker Sanogo searching for his form from first half of the season. Also their partners upfront were not very good, Stiepermann and Mosquera has a lot to improve too. Maybe for this coach Bommer expects a change on this position and calls Sörensen beside Sanogo. This can be possible because against FSV last week plays Stiepermann as offensive wing now. Some good news as well, with Adlung is an important offensive player back after suspension while Banovic is out with his 5th yellow card. Not sure if he must play on double six beside Kruska or can get back to his normal position as offensive wing. No other changes expected as defensive did well.

All counted on the good performance against leader Braunschweig where they did a good job but were not able to hurt even them. Sure it is a little hope back but what they nee dis points, nothing else. If they play good what they did in first half of the season and collecting no points they are welcome opponents nothing more. Additional they get a lot of  praise but this means not that they can avoid relegation. Coach Smude mentioned that he was pleased with his team last match and therefore no changes will be done at the moment. Maybe striker change back to Sembolo as Djuricin had a bad day last match and could not continue his good performance as against Bochum. First time in squad should be new signed striker Koke but only on bench as he has not the fitness for 90  minutes already.

Once again I have a bet against the market. Same was last weekend and I count again on a team who scored no goals so far. I have seen their last match against FSV and they were the much better side in first half where they had a lof of scoring opportunities but wasted all. Also some bad luck for them in some situations as well. They are a very good home side and therefore I believe in them today .... sooner or later they score and I am sure that they start with it today. On the other side Regensburg looked more stable as in first half but they score not much also in defensive they have some problems. Overall their last two matches were good but Bochum showed that they are not so stable only the red card for Bochum helped them to win this encounter. Against Braunschweig they started well but after 20 minutes they lost their style of play and in the end they lost as so often this season. I see Cottbus as the much better side and as I mentioned it already at home they will beat this team from Regensburg. The right time for them today !!!

Recommend Bet: Energie Cottbus AHC -0,5 @ 1,80 (3 Units)

Eintr. Braunschweig - 1860 München

It can be the weekend from Eintracht Braunschweig because their direct rivals behind plays each other and therefore they can make a big step. If they can get the win and maybe Lautern loses in Berlin they are 15 points ahead of 3rd place and this is almost the promotion for them. Because of 10 matches left they have to win only 5 to get closer to 1.BL. Of course 1860 Munich has also small hopes for 3rd place but they should not drop points anymore. They need a huge run but this is almost impossible.

The team from Eintracht looks more on themselve as on the match from Hertha vs. Lautern. Their focus is only on 1860 and they want the win anyway. Coach Lieberknecht said it already that this one would not as easy as 1860 has a lot of quality and they need a good day to overcome them. But as they did in the past I think they are able although they play very cautiously and let the opponent come but with they quick counter attacks they surprised and overcome many opponents already. Although coach was not very pleased about the performance in Regensburg last week he counts on the same eleven as there. Important player Kruppe is still out but one option is back on bench with Kratz after long injury time.

Young coach Schmidt has is own style and he made a lot of mistakes in the past above all the lineup against Bochum was shit. He got a lot of criticism for this. I have to say that I do not like him much as he has a very big mouth but nothing has been torn. He has to change a lot as with Bierofka as back wing or Wood as midfielder it is even very impossible and they should return to their normal positions. One of their best players Halfar is suspended and his replacement Tomasov will get a chance then. Also both strikers Friend and Lauth should be start although they were not very good against Bochum but who can say this. They have to improve a lot if they want to be successful today.

Bayern München - Werder Bremen

What to say about Bayern Munich, they are rolling and overcome all their opponents very easy. They play really one of their best season so far and they are very hard to crack and overall to beat. In offensive they are always able to create and score as well, it is very hard to hold them away and in this case they are always good for some goals. Defensive worked well too, as they conceded only 7 goals in their 22 matches so far. 2013 they did not concede a single goal in league matches and this is also a key fact for their success. The team looked very balanced and they are huge motivated. I am expecting some changes here against the champions league match in London against Arsenal. Robben and Gomez are very angry with their situation and therefore they will be in starting lineup here as they were already against Schalke where they won very easy 4-0. If Bayern can play like in the past where they beat Fürth 2-0, Stuttgart 2-0, Mainz 3-0, Schalke 4-0 and Wolfsburg 2-0 I am very sure that they are more than able to overcome Bremen as well. Only one missing with long term injured defender Badstuber.

Werder Bremen in some trouble above all if some important players are not available due to illness or injury like last weekend. They had huge problems with Freiburg and normally Freiburg should have decided this encounter much earlier as they did because of so many opportunities but wasted and wasted, also with bad luck in some situations where they hit post or bar. Of course Bremen on the other side had also some good chances to score but missed too. This match was very exciting to watch and it was absolutely open because both pushed a lot and also with a lot of mistakes in defensive but in the end Freiburg won 3-2. With a win Bremen had put them in a much better position as they are now. Nevertheless they have to get points in the upcoming matches if they want to hold EL dreams alive. Of course, it is very close at the moment and many teams fight for these spots. Overall Bremen was down because they started with two loses 0-5 vs Dortmund, 2-3 vs Hamburg but fight back with two wins vs. Hannover 2-0 and Stuttgart 4-1 before they had to take the next blow. Of course the hurdle is very high in Munich and they can play as relaxed as they can because no one expecting anything from them. With Hunt returns an important player but Fritz ill and defender chief Sokratis who was in really good form missed again. 

Maybe it is rather easy for them to face Bayern Munich now as they have nothing to lose there. They can play without any pressure and try to get something out of this match but I am not sure if they can. If I compare both sides it would be very hard for them as they have some problems in defensive almost the whole season already. Their defensive row is very instable, both back wings will get a lot of problems against Ribery or Shakiri / Robben or Müller. Also central back is always good for some mistakes. On the other side they are more an offensive minded team and this help not much here, as Bayern Munich can overcome them easy but this is coach Schaaf’s style. He plays only with one man on central midfield position and almost 3 offensive players. But some of the offensive players work not for the defensive or much against the ball like de Bryne. Thus the defensive block keeps coming under extreme pressure  and produce mistakes and the logical consequence are goals. If they keep this style of play against Bayern it would be very hard to see them having a chance. They looked to weak and to easy to overcome in some matches. Stats are absolutely with home side, also their incredible run, they conceded very less and also all their 18 wins came with 2 goals or more this season. Bayern did not get wins at home if they score only one goal as they did vs. Dortmund 1-1, Leverkusen 1-2 and Gladbach 1-1. It makes it not easier for Bremen as they need a very good day but I doubt about it.

Recommend Bet: Bayern Munich AHC -1,75 @ 1,85 (3 Units)

1.FC Köln - Union Berlin

Round 23 and it is an important one for 1.FC Köln because with a win they can close the gab almost to Kaiserslautern and put additional huge pressure on them. But also Union is in a good position and with a win they can overcome Köln today and hold some promotion things alive, although it would be a surprise if they can catch Kaiserslautern but the chances are there anyway. But home team speaks more from promotion as Union and therefore they must bring something today and continue their run from 10 matches without a lose.

One may be curious what eleven Stanislawski will field. Sure they won 1-0 on monday evening against St. Pauli but their play was not very good and they missed a lot of their good counter attacks as they were not able to bring it to an successful end. They waste a lot and it was not  worthy for a promotion contender. After Stanislawski was not very pleased about this and what he has seen he maybe thing about to change his system to 4-2-3-1 with one creative player in the midfield to bring more power in the offense actions. Some candidates are Bigalke and Jajalo while Stefan Maierhofer move back to bench in this case. The Austrian striker was very motivated but his fitness level is not the best what all saw on monday. Also one change in defensive midfield is possible where Lehmann had again a weak performance and this can help Matuschyk into the starting lineup. Strobl should be set on sixer position as he made a good match.

Union Berlin came back to the place where they very absolutely trashed and conceded their biggest disaster. Season 02/03 they lost 0-7 there. In this case they have to do something well. But overall they looked not very good against Ingolstadt and had a lot of luck because Ingolstadt played very well although they were without several players but Union were not able to use this. Coach Neuhaus has additional problems with players who are ill or injured. Therefore Kohlmann and Mattuschka are not available today. So, the back row must be changed again. Schönheim moves on back wing while Stuff gets the position in central back. For Mattuschka maybe Jopek is an option and also Quiring could displace Zoundi who was not in his best shape last match.

FC St. Pauli - FSV Frankfurt

Of fighting spirit and use lacked it not but nevertheless St. Pauli stands again with empty hands there against Köln on Monday. They had a small advantage against the drop zone in the end of 2012 but they lost it almost 2013 already. With 5 matches winless they need immediately points to stay away from relegation battle, accordingly they should begin now otherwise it would be precarious. Much more relaxed should be their opponent FSV Frankfurt, their season goal is reached already and they can play with huge self confidence with two to nil wins in their back anyway. The only problem they have is that the personal situation is not the best at the moment, but this should not effect much as they had almost all season problems.

Also home team miss a lot of players because with Mohr and Thorandt are both central defenders suspended what makes it not much easy for coach Frontzeck. He has to form a complete new central back and it can be a problem above all they never played in this formation before. He calls Avevor and Kalla for this position, sometimes these played already there as a temporary solution or temporary way. Additional some changes are possible in midfield as well because with Fin Bartels miss an important player here too. His replacement can be Aka Gogia who played already some minutes against Cologne. Also their supporters were very happy to welcome back Boll after a long injury time but he will miss again with flu. No other changes expected although their offensive is very weak with only a single goal in their last 5 matches and overall only 19 goals till now. With this  numbers they have the weakest attack in second Division. But neither player could impose as alternative so far.

FSV has a lot of problems too because of some missing as well. With Gaus and Teixeira also two players suspended. Mathew Leckie is set to replace Gaus while Anthony Jung replace Teixeira again. One question mark stands behind Jönsson who scored the winning goal against Cottbus last Sunday. He could not train with the team so far, only light running was possible and therefore it is not sure if he can play today. Coach Möhlmann wants to think about him, if he can complete final practice, he can be an option otherwise Zafar Yelen gets the open place in offensive. Last but not least, more as unclear is if Alexander Huber travels to Hamburg today because his wife is expecting a child.  

1899 Hoffenheim - VfB Stuttgart

Many things should change 2013 for 1899 Hoffenheim after signing their third coach Kurz already this season. But not much has changed so far as they are on the same level again. Many trouble in and around the club also in team and therefore they can not bring their best performance on the pitch. Manager Müller and Coach Kurz talked a lot but could not reach the players so far. The highlight was the demotion of Keeper Wiese and the signing of new Keeper Gomez from Tottenham. During the week there were a lot of attention because of Weis and Wiese, both were thrown from the disco intoxicated. Manager Müller said that they have to pay a five figure sum for this incident. If they are in squad is not decided but Wiese is out anyway after his demotion. Weis was in starting lineup in the past but likely he is only on bench now. Coach Kurz wants to work on all positions and their play overall but it looks like that they are too bad/weak. Of course some improvements are there but they are very small, defensive was very weak and conceded a lot, sure they are better but make mistakes again. Maybe their  focus on defensive play is to much in training as the offensive is to harmless as well. With Joselu and Derdioyk are two Strikers totally out of form while new man de Camargo has no connection to the game so far. They play much to slow and also if Volland has not his best day their offense do not exist. All their problems were shown against Hannover and I am not sure if they can get it solved this week. At their last home match against Freiburg they were very lucky as they were 0-1 down and Freiburg had the big opportunity to expand the lead but failed and on the other side they made two big mistakes where Hoffenheim knew how to use but both were gifts.

2013 seems not to be a good year for VfB Stuttgart, because they lost all 4 games so far. With last year included they are on a 5 matches losing streak and not far away from their run of 7 lost games in a row at Season 86/87. They lost their good position from first half of the season and have to look down now. To harmless were their performances with many mistakes where they allowed to many easy goals for their opponents. The alarm bells rings already and they have to turn things around immediately if they do not want to get involved in relegation battle. This derby match against Hoffenheim is absolutely important for them and they should not lose anyway. To sum up the last matches they lost in Wolfsburg 0-2 a bit unlucky as the lead was from a shot out of the box, against Bayern Munich (0-2) Molinaro decided this match with his big mistake, in Düsseldorf 1-3 they made also some mistakes and therefore no outcome for them, against Bremen they started well but forgot to score and in this case Bremen took the lead, after the half time Stuttgart came back and equalized and had some good opportunities for the lead but missed it also maybe a penalty not given by the referee. In the following period they fall back in old mistakes and decided this match this way again.

All in all it is a derby and both are not in such good form but both need the points. I expect more a tactical match as an open one. Home side is a bit more under pressure as they are one of the bottom teams and in huge danger right now. Therefore they have to invest much more to win this encounter and open a lot of space while Stuttgart can sit back a bit and go for counters what would be not such a bad idea as with Harnik and Traore they have very good fast offensive wingers in their rows. Upfront plays former Striker from Hoffenheim Ibisevic who should be huge motivated against his old team. Additional both teams are very unstable in defensive what can be another reason in this match, which team can minimize mistakes get some advantage, of course. However, Hoffenheim is not exactly a goal machine and rather harmless, I guess Stuttgart as much stronger here. Yes, I know, you want to say, why should I put some on a team that lost the last 5 matches and looked totally weak. This derby is the right time for them to turn things around and sooner or later they get at least a draw and it is more as possible as they have a very good record here. As one of the best sides away from home in first half of the season I believe in them today.

Recommend Bet: VfB Stuttgart AHC +0,25 @ 1,90 (3 Units)

1.FC Nürnberg - Hannover 96

F R E E - P I C K !!!

Nürnberg played a solid season so far and they are on the best way to stay away from relegation trouble. With 25 points they are already 9 points ahead of 16th place and in this case they have not such pressure at the moment. After Hecking left to Wolfsburg, new man on the line Wiesinger tooks over and he makes a good job and understand to motivate his team and also choose the right tactic. In 4 matches where he was on the line now his stats are average with 1-2-1. They got a point against Hamburg where they were the weaker side, lost in Dortmund 0-3, won at home against Gladbach and draw in Frankfurt 0-0. Of course against Gladbach it went all their way because they got a penalty in first minute and help them a lot and their style of play as Gladbach had to open a lot therefore they us one counter for 2-0 lead. Coach from Galdbach was not very angry because it was more a dive from Frantz as a penalty. One week later they played really well against Frankfurt and had a lof of opportunities but waste all although they were the better side and destroyed Frankfurt's play very well. In 90. minutes they almost were never in danger to lose this. But nevertheless this match showed already their problems because if they can not score or take the lead it is very hard for them to get some space which is needed for their play. They are not known as a team who get out and push and overcome their opponents. But exactly this is needed against Hannover because I do not expect Hannover plays offensive or make the play, they let Nürnberg do this and this is the problem for home side. If they are not able to score fast as they did against Gladbach, this match is very close and very open.

Wow what a streak from Hannover 96, they are winless since 5 matches, even more they lost the last 5 matches. Of course they are not such bad but they have / had a lot of problems above all on the road. Maybe to many changes in the past and also some injured players help not much but sooner or later their negative streak comes to an end. They started with 4-5 against Schalke, where they produced to many mistakes in defensive while their offensive worked well but could not score as much as they conceded. Last away match against Bremen was good in defensive for around 80. minutes but conceded two late goals and lost in the end 0-2. In this match they were only focused on defensive and forgot to hurt Bremen a bit. It was more one way from Bremen and it was clear that sooner or later the goal will come as Hannover was not able to provide some relief. Their offensive looks good and they were at least always able to score one, only against Bayern and Bremen they were not able. If they want to continue their hopes for Euro League next season they have to start collecting points on the road and if they get some or even a win they are very close to Top 6 and all is possible. Coach Slomka gets some options because with Franca their new signing is ready now and maybe can replace on of the guys in central midfield like Pinto or Schmiedebach. Still out are Andreasen, Eggimann, Cherundolo, Felipe, Stindl and Pocognoli.

All in all I expect a close match where Nürnberg as home team has to be the playmaker and Hannover count on their fast counter attacks which has brought much success in the past month. In this case Nürnberg is getting problems as they have not the players for this play and they have always problems with this matches, above all if they can not take the lead immediately and if they fall behind it is getting more difficult for them additional. I see Hannover well prepared and I do not think that they lose their 6 match in a row on the road. Their stats, matchplan and class of players speaks for them today.

Recommend Bet: Hannover 96 AHC +0,5 @ 1,90 (3 Units)

Dynamo Dresden - SV Sandhausen

This is an absolutely important match for both teams because with the win from Bochum the distance to safe zone is getting bigger, therefore they need both this win here. If they play only draw, it is almost to less for both. In this direct encounter helps only a win to keep hopes alive, you can call this match also "Do or die" game.

Maybe the much bigger pressure lies on Dresden today. They play at home and they are one point behind Sandhausen who overcome them last weekend. This means that they need this win much more but a look into the stats show not many hope at the moment. They got only one point 2013 and scored not a single goal so far. This tell a lot where the problems are. To many counts on Pote in offensive and if he gets controlled it is almost impossible that they can get dangerous. They tried to find the right partner for him but almost all failed so far. New winter signing Khlebosolov is injured, Kitambala failed many times already and is not fit at the moment while Fort could not recommend in training. Therefore youngster Müller plays again beside Pote as second striker. This means that coach Pacult counts on a 4-4-2 system and hopefully more scoring situations as in the past matches. They miss an important midfielder with Kempe suspended today, also Gueye is out and should be replaced by Jungwirth. One change in midfield as well as Solga could not convince in his play, for him Losilla should be in the starting lineup today.

After their great win against St. Pauli Coach Boysen sees no reason to change his team. He counts on the same eleven as one week ago. They played very well and they made one of their best matches this season. Overall they won very deserved 4-1 and overcome Dresden. Some of their players looked very good and their form showed some improvements but 3 players stood out of the eleven. These guys were striker Löning and both offensive wings Wooten and Ulm, if they can compensate this form they should be able to hurt Dresden's defensive for sure. If not, Coach Boysen has some options left because both new signings Beichler and Yun were off the bench against Pauli. 

I know some of you maybe can call me if I compare the stats from these two sides and both are known as more as harmless infront of the goal and both did hard there anyway. But I think this can be a very interesting match because both need the win to hold them alive. The pressure is there and it helps not much, no it can be that they produce some mistakes and I hope that both teams can us it. I see this match very open and if one can take the lead hopefully earl, this match gets stretched wide and a lot of space and scoring opportunities should be come. I like the goals here, as both can not sit back, Dresden push a lot from beginning on above all the first 30 minutes and their crowd push additional!!! GL

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,25 @ 1,80 (3 Units)

MSV Duisburg - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

Important game for the home team because with Dresden and Sandhausen two direct competitors play against each other and one of them get the points and get closer if MSV can not get anything here. They are not in such good shape and collected only one point 2013, their advantage to drop zone is almost gone and it seems that they are getting involved again. On the other side Kaiserslautern started very well and with their new signings they did well and won both matches. They looked very good in these and they want to continue this way and get promoted in the end. They have all weapons in their hand and in this case they must only walk on.

It was a big disappointment for MSV against 1860 Munich where they took the lead but can not hold it long and in the end they lost 1-3. After 1860 took the lead they opened a lot and much space for 1860 gave them the opportunity for more goals. It would be very important for MSV today to play as compact as they can because with Kaiserslautern they have one of the top teams in this league ahead. Some changes are expected and bring some fresh power into the team. First one should be on keeper position where Müller must back on bench and former 1st keeper Wiedwald gives his comeback after injury. Also Bajic and Sukalo should be in team for sure as they were suspended last match but returns today. As I said Müller, Lachheb and Perthel must back on bench then. Moreover some other changes are possible as with Kern they are not very pleased and coach want to change here too. For him maybe can play Brosinski on this position while Exslager can take the Brosinski position as offensive wing.

On the other side Kaiserslautern without any problems as they started well, coach Foda has a lot of options with their new players and he sees no reason to change against their deserved 3-0 win. He has almost all men available and therefore to choose from a lot. Hoffer and Drazan did a good job as joker in the past but put a lot of pressure on the others as they want to move in starting lineup but it is more expected that they start again from bench. Some experts said that maybe Mitchell Weiser is out from first eleven as he could not convince much in his two starting matches, in this case Hoffer gets a place as striker while Bunjaku move back as offensive wing. From such a huge squad to choose can MSV only dream !!!

Borussia Dortmund - Eintracht Frankfurt

Wow, the team from coach Jürgen Klopp started with a big exclamation mark into 2013. They won very easy against Bremen 5-0, Nürnberg 3-0, Leverkusen with some problems and luck 3-2 and then lost to Hamburger SV 1-4. It was the second lose against this team from the north. Of course, maybe they were a bit unlucky or were penalized by the referee. They started well, took the lead and all think again that they win this but Hamburg was not shocked much and came back and equalize short after fall behind. And as Lewandowski got the red card the match was more or less decided pro Hamburg. They were very aggressive and played much better as against Frankfurt. Some said that the red card was to much but it was more or less a factual decision of the referee. Sure, it would be a huge blow for Dortmund because if you have seen the match against Donezk you know why. Lewa is in top form and is always able to score but he is suspended now. Replacement can be Schieber who gets only some minutes so far. But nevertheless coach Klopp can change a bit a let Reus play as the one upfront as with Kuba and Götze behind of him can create good opportunities and hurt Frankfurt’s defensive. Overall what they played against Donezk was very good and their offensive looked unstoppable, as their players are such good that they are always able to get dangerous at any time.

Surprise team from Frankfurt played a very good season so far. They look very stable although they play more an open style. This means that they are not too focused on their defensive and count more on their offensive. They like more to win matches 3-2 or something like that as to play 1-0 or 2-0. Of course the last two matches they played 2-0 and 0-0 but sometimes days like this are there. Against Hamburg their new striker Lakic on loan from Wolfsburg scored twice but failed one week later as they were the weaker side and also lucky because Nürnberg had the much better opportunities to win this encounter. But they have a match ahead who is very different to the match against Nürnberg. Nürnberg stands very deep and close and allowed Frankfurt not much while Dortmund gives a lot of space for their counter attacks as they will play for sure more open and try to overcome Frankfurt. This is their chance here and they can show that they are able to compete at this level. Please take in mind that the first match of these teams were a big spectacle and it ends 3-3.

This encounter should be very open, with both always in a position to score goals. Sure Dortmund at home will try to make pressure, while Frankfurt defends and go for fast dangerous counter attacks. The record speaks for Dortmund as they won / score a lot against Eintracht in their stadium in the past. The weapons are there although BvB best striker Lewandowski will miss but a lot of dangerous players on the pitch anyway. I like the goals here since both are able to score and if one side can take the lead the match will be wide open and gives a lot of opportunities. GL  

Recommend Bet: OVER 3 @ 1,74 (3 Units)

Bayer Leverkusen - FC Augsburg

What went wrong in Leverkusen in the past two matches? They played really well against Dortmund and fired from all guns but lost in the end because of the mistakes they made in defensive. On the other side they waste too much with their opportunities and let Dortmund alive. Almost the same scenario was repeated one week later when they played a great game against Gladbach, although they got only a draw. They were the much better side, played really well and fast in their offensive actions while Gladbach had not weapon against them. Also some strange decisions from referee and a lot of bad luck let they not lead at half time. Moreover Gladbach scored the lead with the first corner some seconds before the half time whistle.  Many in the stadium could not believe it and rubbed their eyes in amazement that not lead Leverkusen but Gladbach. In second half both teams pushed a lot and it was more or less an open match, Leverkusen equalized but a few minutes later Gladbach took the lead again, in the following period scored Leverkusen twice and picked up for  the first-time leadership but Gladbach could equalize with a free kick in the end. Overall Leverkusen was not very pleased about the result as they were the much better side with much more ball possession and also the much better style of play. Nevertheless they are in good shape at the moment and maybe their bad luck is gone now they had two matches, maybe they play bad this time but win. It is more likely because only results that count.

The streak from FC Augsburg continues as they are unbeaten in 4 this year now. Of course they had some luck too but this is needed in relegation battle as well. They close the gab to 16. Place (1899 Hoffenheim) already and the hope is back as they face them next week and should have much more attention as the match against Leverkusen. Sure, they do not want to lose and they want to continue their streak as points are always welcome to leave the drop zone. It was very hard to see them playing against FSV Mainz 05. They started very well, tried some but was not so consistently in their actions in front of the goal. This Mainz was better after 15 minutes and put a few pinpricks. They showed that with some fast passing actions Augsburg’s defensive is very vulnerable. In the following period Mainz press a lot and after Augsburg back wing Pilp got injured huge Augsburg played with 10 men for some minutes and in this time Mainz took advantage of the confusion in the defense and score. While Augsburg was shocked Ivanschitz had the opportunity for the second goal but missed and after this FSV offense player Parker booked a red card. This card changed the match a lot, Augsburg pressed almost all the time in second half and played really well over the wing but could only score a single goal. According to their weak stats without a single goal at home since 5 hours not very amazing. All of them were not so pleased about the result, as they want the win but could not finish it.

I like the way Leverkusen is playing at the moment and they showed very good form as well, sooner or later they get rewarded for their effort. What make me very confident is that they have very fast wings with Schürrle, Castro and Sam and their fast passing style hurts Augsburg I am sure as they showed a lot of weakness if Mainz played with fast combinations. Additional must coach Weinzierl change his defensive row as with Pilp is their right back wing out now, Parkhurst replaced him, had some good offensive actions but nothing in defensive and I expect a weak point there. And If they can control best player Koo Augsburg’s play is restricted and help a lot to take advantage. I compare both teams but I see huge advantage for Leverkusen as their offensive is so good as they can score at any time and also not even one. On the other side Augsburg has huge problems to score, sure they scored 3 in Düsseldorf but with huge help from Defender and Keeper while in other matches they are very limited and only good for one so far. Therefore I expect Leverkusen win !!!

Recommend Bet: Bayer Leverkusen AHC -1 @ 1,92 (3 Units)

VfR Aalen - Hertha BSC Berlin

Normally if you compare the player names from these two teams it should be a clear thing for Hertha. But overall Aalen are not as easy to play and they are very hard to crack as they are huge focused on defensive and go for fast counter attacks. Also they have the lowest ball possession in 2.BL, they do not count on them, the only thing what count is the end result and they showed that they are able to play on such a level. Hertha should take this one serious as Aalen gave some object lesson already last weekend. Braunschweig knows it already.

Aalen played very well in Braunschweig and got deserved a draw and if they did not waste to much they have won it for sure. It is always the same as they are not known as such scoring team but on the other side they become promotion candidate if they win this today. But coach Hasenhüttl does not want to talk about as his focus is to get 40 points as soon as possible for their remaining in 2.BL. Not many changes are expected today as the team did well last week. Of course, Hasenhüttl is known for some spectacular changes and maybe he surprises some today again. Junglas and Leandro should be set on Sixer position as they were praised from Coach. Other positions, we will see :)

Thanks god, thanks god, thanks god for midfielder Ronny who made an excellent game in derby against Union and saved Hertha once again. He shot the corner to the 1-2 through Ramos and what a direct free kick from him to equalize this match. He is in great form at the moment and this guy make the difference at the moment for Hertha. Since 2nd Round, Hertha did not lose a single game ... hopefully they can continue their run. Not available for them is Kluge, because of his 5th yellow card. But some alternatives are there with Kobiashvili, Knoll, Mukhtar or Morales. Next change should be left back wing Bastians had a weak performance in Derby, therefore suspended Holland is back today and should get the place. Also Ben Hatira is an option for Luhukay as he was out longer but back now. For him Allagui move out of the team and sit on bench then. 

Jahn Regensburg - Eintracht Braunschweig

If we take a look on the table everything is clear in this match, normally. Regensburg on last position while Braunschweig is leader of 2.Bundesliga and the difference are 32 points between both sides so far. But maybe some surprise is possible as Regensburg got some self confidence and motivation back with the win against Bochum and additional they showed some good matches already in their Stadium. Their opponent for today played well against Aalen last weekend but got only a draw.

Wow, after a long run without a win they managed an important win against Bochum. Hero of the match was Marco Djuricin with two goals. Therefore, he makes now corrected hope for a starting place because he was substituted in Bochum only. But it would be not as easy because with top scorer Sembolo returns the normal striker from suspension. And if coach Smuda does not change the practiced system 4-1-4-1 with Nachreiner on the six and Hein, de Guzman as offensive midfielder only one of them can be in starting lineup. Moreover Smuda mentioned that only one of them plays. Some changes are expected as with Machado and Smarzoch they have some wobble candidates. For Smarzoch plays Altinay who is back from illness. Machado is still open ……

It was not the best situation for Braunschweig as their best and successful players Kruppke and Kumbela in the past were out. Kruppe is still not available but the other top man returns from suspension and is set upfront. Also some changes expected in midfield because Chinese Zhang made not such a good game on the six and can be replaced by Pfitzner. Upfront looks Ademi also not in such good shape as he can start, so this can be the changes. Some good news for the leader is the returning of long injured midfielder Kratz who can be in squad today.  

Probably lineup:

SSV Jahn Regensburg: Ochs – Altinay, Laurito, Kamavuaka, C. Rahn – Nachreiner – Carlinhos, de Guzman, Hein, Haag – Djuricin

Eintracht Braunschweig: Davari – Bohl, Bicakcic, Dogan, Reichel – Theuerkauf, Pfitzner – Elabdellaoui, Boland, Petersch – Kumbela

Hertha BSC Berlin - Union Berlin

Big City Derby in Berlin when Hertha BSC hosts Union for an important match as both are in promotion fight. If Hertha win this one they overcome leader Braunschweig while Union needs the win too to get closer to Kaiserslautern. Home side can make the gap bigger to third place while Union can close it a bit and are only 4 points behind Kaiserslautern.

It was more or less hard work for Hertha against Regensburg last weekend. Of course they won 5-1 there but I think some goals to high as they were not on their best level. First half was awful, second was better but thanks to Ronny who was again the difference. Against Union Coach Luhukay plans some changes because left back wing Holland is not available due to suspension, he will replaced by Bastians, also Pekarik is ready and an option as right back wing and gives Ndjeng the option to move on his normal position while Allagui must on bench because his performance was not well against Regensburg on this position as wing. Also Ben Hatira returns after his long injury time and can play for Sahar on the wing as the Israeli was even not in his best form. Sure in the starting lineup should be Kluge and Niemeyer although they are slightly injured but the experienced double six is ready. Two players (Franz and Lasogga) were suspended by the coach for the game against Union because of trainings fight.  

Good match, good start for Union but they want to continue like this way and therefore they must win this one as well. They played very good against Sandhausen and won deserved 3-1. In this match they showed already that they are able for higher ambitions. But one of the best playing man Parensen is out with illness today. He was one of the most active players against Sandhausen and help the team a lot. This is a big blow now but with Stuff returns one player who was out last weekend and can be in starting lineup immediately while Schönheim moves towards and plays on Parensen’s position in midfield. Another option should be Quiring who can replace Jopek who had not his best day last time. Striker Özbeck who scored in last match is only on bench again but if he comes in, he is ready.  

Probably lineup:

Hertha BSC: Kraft – Pekarik, Lustenberger, Brooks, Bastians – Niemeyer, Kluge – Ndjeng, Ronny, Sahar (Ben Hatira) – Ramos

1. FC Union Berlin: Haas – Pfertzel, Stuff, Puncec, Kohlmann – Menz – Quiring, Mattuschka, Schönheim – Nemec, Terodde

FC Augsburg - FSV Mainz 05

Wow, what a start from Augsburg 2013. The hope is back and they play very good so far. With some changes in the winter break they have laid the foundation. New Manager Reuter was very positive and was further to the team and coaches, maybe he has found the right words and the right course. Also they let coach Weinzierl work in silence and he knows this and also his team has much more self confidence now. They started with a luck win at Düsseldorf but this was maybe the right sign for them and gave them a lot of motivation back and boost them additional. They showed this against Schalke at home one week later where they were the much better side and should have won this but wasted to much or were a bit unlucky also their defensive allowed only one big opportunity for Schalke. At Wolfsburg they had maybe some problems to beginning of the match but the longer the game went on the more they controlled it. Of course they were 0-1 down but they did not think long about it and played easily. Also what is very important they stands well in defensive and do not make so many mistakes now what helps a lot. Also Weinzierl has found the right eleven and they worked very well in the past matches and got rewarded very well. With keeper Jentzsch, DEF Reinhardt, MID Ottl, DEF Verhaegh, STR Bance and MID Petrzela they have some missings but it looks like that they compensate all.

The opponent of Augsburg are on a good way this season, they have the chance to get involved in Euro League next season if they continue like the past. With a win they can reach 5th place and this means that they are in a very good position. They got 4 points out of the 3 matches 2013 but the win was against Fürth who are winless at home so far. The other matches were at home with 0-0 against Freiburg and 0-3 against Bayern Munich where they played well but had no chance in second half. Coach Tuchel did a good job so far and he has to integrate some new players as with Polanski left to Hoffenheim they signed a replacement for him with Zimling. Of course their play is not infected much with this change but all in all they count to much on their top striker Szalai. He was out against Bayern and they could not score also against Freiburg he was controlled very well from the defensive and had no change then. He is back today but on the other side they miss one of the best and important wing with N. Müller. He was the advantage in some of their matches already as he is very quick and can score too. Therefore Tuchel has to change again and should find the right players for his system but he is known as tactic fox anyway.

Home team believes in itself again and they showed a much different face as in the first half of the season. They are back on track and their play is much better, the defensive stands well and all work together now. If they play like in their 3 matches 2013 I am very sure, they get the points as FSV Mainz not an away monster that they can overcome Augsburg very easy. I am very confident as the stats speaks also pro Augsburg, after Wolfsburg, Mainz is their favorite opponent. The opening line was very good but gone fast but I think that the DNB line is acceptable too. GL

Recommend Bet: FC Augsburg AHC 0 @ 1,98 (3Units)

VfL Bochum - Jahn Regensburg

It can be a very good weekend for VfL Bochum because all went in their way as Dresden lost at Kaiserslautern and with a win today they can let the gap get bigger. Now 4 points with a win 7 points which would give them more rest for their work. Although they should have one eye on Sandhausen as well, because if they win they overcome Dresden. Nevertheless it would be even 6 points lead to the drop zone but they have to win first as with Regensburg they get a very hard nut today. The bottom team is almost in a must win situation if they want to hold the aim of remaining in 2.BL alive they must start getting points. 

They started good into 2013 with a draw at Aalen, but they were not very happy about it as they were two times up and conceded every time the equalizer. But things are against them at the moment as with Ortega and Dedic they miss additional players to the other injured guys like Aydin and Tasaka. These means that their offensive is very thinned. The coach is not to be envied, because he has very few options his offensive so far. It speaks all for Scheidhauer and Iashvili upfront while the rest of the lineup will be the same as against Aalen. But they have also one questionmark behind Freier, who has some problems. Otherwise they have to change a bit their system. But should they? Kramer and Goretzka played well but if Freier can not play maybe old guy Dabrowski plays for Goretzka on the double six while Goretzka can move on Freier's position. All possible. Also they miss suspended Eyjolfsson.

It looks like the new coach Smuda still could not fix the problems because if they concede the first goal they break down totally. And it was not a surprise that they lost 1-5 against Hertha in the end. They played well first half but collapse totally in second half. Also none of the new signings could help so far to stop this trend. Overall not many changes expected because they have to look forward and it counts every match now if they want to remain in the league. Only important striker Sembolo is out after booked his 5th yellow card last weekend. For him maybe Djuricin is set upfront while Wießmeier move in the starting lineup and plays in midfield. The other missings from Jahn are Kotzke, Kurz and Ziereis.

Bor. M'Gladbach - Bayer Leverkusen

Herrmann loves to play against Leverkusen !!!

The start into the second half of the season was good for Gladbach with a draw and a win in their first two matches, only against Nürnberg they lost but coach Favre was very angry about it as some decisions of the referee was very doubtful above all Nürnberg’s penalty. It was more a dive from midfielder Frantz as a foul from Marx and therefore the match has been steered in the direction of Nürnberg after two minutes only. In the following time Nürnberg played compact and go for counter attacks in their own stadium and scored the second goal with a fast break. Although Gladbach had much more ball possession (almost 75% in some sequences) and played much better and should have deserved much more but could only score one goal. If the referee had not given the penalty in the first minutes it would certainly have been possible more because Gladbach showed better game play and system. After 9 matches without a defeat they lose now, but all said that this is not the beginning of a further downturn like the start of the season. They are much more balanced and strong now as they struggle again. They close the gap to the Top 6 and therefore they are one of the contender for the international business again. Overall they have a very good style of play and they are also very hard to beat anyway. They have a lot of weapons in their rows who can decide matches and their dangerousness is huge with many options like counters, corners, free kicks, wide shots and so on. Favre miss with Jantschke suspended after his 5th yellow card one starter but he should be replaced by Brouwers while Stranzl give his comeback in starting lineup.

Wow, what a match between Leverkusen and Dortmund which were decided by some mistakes from Leverkusen’s players or maybe their sleepy actions. After ten minutes the match was almost decided after Dortmund leading 2-0 with two fast goals. But what a comeback from Leverkusen in second half, maybe they woke up at half time and some changes above all Sidney Sam gave them many more opportunities in their play. Big press from Leverkusen then and they were able to equalize but one minute later a big mistake from defender Wollscheid decided this encounter. This was their first lose at home this season. But overall they are some points ahead of the other Teams and should be able to hold 3^rd position at least. It was also not such a problem because almost all teams behind lost points too. Sure they want get back on track but it would be a hard task as we saw against Freiburg two weeks ago, if their fast wings get not a lot of space and the opponent plays more compact it would be difficult for them to take advantage. Therefore it would be very interesting to watch how they react against Gladbach who like this style of play. Not available DEF Toprak after his 5th yellow card.

Both teams lost their games last weekend, so it will be very interesting to see who can be rehabilitated more quickly, as both showed very good performance. Of course, Leverkusen should certainly have advantages due to the individual players, but Gladbach play more as a team and it is extremely compact and are difficult to beat at the Borussia Park. Additionally Leverkusen could celebrate only 4 wins away so far, and also the balance against Gladbach is very draw-heavy. In over 20 games they have won only 5 there, from this point of view, I prefer the quarter ball handicap on Gladbach which puts us in a good position.

Recommend Bets: Bor. M'Gladbach - Bayer Leverkusen AHC +0,25 @ 2.08 + OVER 2,5 @ 1,92 (both 3 Units)

VfB Stuttgart - Werder Bremen

With a very good postion ended the first half of the season for Stuttgart. They were all very happy and pleased with a good season so far with the hope of continuation 2013. They were very focused in training camp, whether player, coach or manager were all there with heart. Although some rumors around above all because of coach Labbadia who has not signed his new contract but did it last week now. No one expected that they started like this as they are on a losing streak from 4 matches, only 86/87 they had a longer streak with 7 matches. In the first matches they looked not much good and produced a lot of errors and let their opponents score very easy. They have to find back to their style in first half of the season but it would be not as easy as coach Labbadia changes a lot too. Last match against Düsseldorf he changed almost the whole offensive line and therefore they worked very awful and can not put much pressure on Fortuna’s defensive, only as Traore came in, their play was much better then. In defensive they are unstable and weak, many mistakes made by experienced players, who should normally lead the others. No important missing, Harnik is back from suspension and should be in starting lineup again.

North team from Bremen started also with 2 loses in a row but played a very good and motivated match against Hannover 96. They invested a lot and if they had not won this one, maybe they never win a match this season. They pushed a lot and gave Hannover’s defensive a lot to do, but on the other side they wasted to much, if they used their chances well they should have won 5/6-0. Hannover’s coach Slomka has a lot of missings and according to their bad results in the past away from home they tried to gave them more stability with a more or less defensive tactic. In this case the offensive do not exist and their dangerous fast counter attacks not available. For this reason, sooner or later Bremen must took the lead, and as they did, the match was gone for Hannover. Schaaf has Bargfrede, Füllkrug und Wolf not available but they are not such important.

I like the goals in this match as both are not such good in defensive at the moment but both are always able to score as they did in the past matches when these two teams plays against each other. Additional the style of Bremen’s play is very open and offensive who gives Stuttgart more space and opportunities as against Düsseldorf. At least 3 goals are more as possible here.

Recommend Bet: OVER 3 @ 2,08 (3 Units)   

Bayern München - FC Schalke 04

What to say, normally this should be a big match but if we compare these two teams it is more or less decided. Bayern Munich is rolling and they win match after match and in all these matches maybe they need some time to get on track but they are never in danger in the past. Their defensive conceding almost zero and upfront their class is there that they are always able to score one, two, three or more. It is very scary if you take a look what coach Heynckes has on bench but he does not need anyone of them at the moment because the starting lineup is well balanced and play such a good style that it is hard for everyone to come in. Some players like Gomez and Robben are a bit angry but they have to accept the situation at the moment as no one of the starting eleven show some weakness. 

I wrote it already some time ago that I do not like coach Keller as he was in Stuttgart and he made a bad job there and was fired after some month and the same happens in Schalke for sure. I do not see a clear uptrend from the team so far. No, it is more or less a downtrend as the defensive is very weak and also the offensive who played really good under Stevens did not improve much. Their style of play is weak and the result showed this already. They are normally one of the champions league candidates for next season but with this form and this style of play, never. They have to fight huge that they get an international starter place for next season as many teams behind take a lot of pressure on them and with a lose today they are for sure out of the top 6. Therefore the pressure is getting bigger and bigger where manager Heldt has to make a decision and this means he has to suck coach Keller. They signed a few new players like Raffael or Bastos but let in good form playing Holtby left to Tottenham. It makes no sense for me as they hurt themselves. Raffael played not much at Kiew and can not help immediately, Bastos showed some against Fürth but against better teams, can he? The other boring things are as follows. Fuchs received his 5th yellow card and is out, for him should play youngster Kolasinac but can he stopp Ribery or Müller, no way. Important DEF Papadopolous is out since weeks and without him the defensive is very weak as Matip are a huge risk if he plays. Affeley, Moritz and Marica are also out and weakening the offensive a lot. Their best scorer Huntelaar is out with an eye injury but he was totally out of form anyway.

Overall a clear thing for Bayern Munich at the moment. It speaks all for them. If anyone can tell me what speaks for Schalke, please let me know. I think we can get a lot of in play options as Schalke try for sure to defend and build a big wall, but soon or later they will fall.

Energie Cottbus - 1.FC Köln

Both teams have still hopes for 3rd place but for this they should start a winning streak and they should not drop points anymore. Cottbus was not very pleased last weekend as they got only a 0-0 draw at ST. Pauli and the referee did not give a clear penalty for them. With a win they would have been much closer to Kaiserslautern. Cologne on the other side got a win with a late late goal from midfielder Clemens. This put his team in a good positon but overall both must win today if they want to hold their aims alive. Very interesting match anyway.

Coach Bommer was very pleased with the performance of his team and therefore not many changes are expected. In this case Schulze gets a new chance as back wing who came on loan from VfL Wolfsburg because with Engel is the normally starter injured. Also in midfield starts Fomitschow again because Adlung is still suspended and for sure a blow for Energie as he was always one of the active players in their game. In offensive Stiepermann and Sanogo are set to start today and again only on bench new signed Mosquera who comes as joker as he did against Pauli already.

Cologne won lucky against Aue with a wide shot from Clemens but they had many problems in their play and also in some positions. Also their offense play was not the best whereas coach Stanislawski has to make some changes. Maybe possible that he changes also the tactic / system and move back to the successfully one where they did much better as against Aue. This means only one man on central midfield and two offensives wings. Upfront no changes expected as with Royer, Bröker and Ujah they have not much in back. Overall some other options are there too but they are more or less a bit risky as he counts on. Maybe one alternative should be midfielder Bigalke who is back from illness and can start maybe if he get the confidence from coach.

Erzgebirge Aue - FSV Frankfurt

Both teams started with a lose into the new year but both want to try to get back on track today. Above all Aue wants revenge for the unlucky 0-1 in first match where they conceded a very late goal. Coach Baumann mentioned in an interview some words about relegation fight. “In relegation battle you have to win the home matches” With this words he wants to give this match huge importance and his players are determined enough to win. It would be very helpful for them to look back at the matches from last year as with Cottbus 3-0 or against Bochum 6-1 where both matches were played under very hard conditions, therefore they know the situation already and maybe can be called as experts. Despite everything Baumann warned that this will not happen automatically, as FSV has a very strong team. On the other side FSV coach Möhlmann knows exactly what count for his team today. We must play very aggressive, fight and give all to get something as the pitch would be not the best but this is almost suitable for this game.

Home side have some missings as Nickenig is suspended while back wing Schlitte returns and should be in starting lineup immediately. Also some changes are expected against first match, where they were very offensive minded but he wants to change a bit now and play from a good organized defensive. The offensive style was only because they were 0-1 down against Cologne and maybe if they are again, he knows that he can change and have some weapons on bench. Nevertheless he plays with two strikers today. If Kastrati or König beside Sylvestr upfront is not decided yet. Both have strengths. Kastrati showed it in some situations against Cologne while König scored twice against FSV last season.     

FSV comes with the same squad to Aue who was already named against Ingolstadt last weekend. With Leckie and Roshi were two players away and played for their national teams and therefore they arrived late. Maybe Möhlmann gives these guys a small rest and count on other players as with the long trip the players maybe are a bit tired. Replacements are Görlitz and Gaus on the wing. Small questionmark is behind striker Verhoek who got injured in training, for him is Jönsson ready.  

Of course, normally this would be a very close match, with big fight from both. And as always if Aue plays less goals are expected as well but I see this a bit different as under this conditions some mistakes are possible and open it for goals. I expect that both score and hopefully an early goal, this would open the match wide.

Probably lineup:

Erzgebirge Aue: Männel – Schlitte, Paulus, Pezzoni, Klingbeil – Fa. Müller, Höfler, M. Fink, Hochscheidt – Sylvestr, Kastrati (König)

FSV Frankfurt: Klandt – Huber, Schlicke, Heubach, Teixeira – Konrad, Bambara – M. Görlitz, Leckie – Yelen – Verhoek (Jönsson)

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,25 @ 1,74 (3 Units)

1.FC Kaiserslautern - Dynamo Dresden

Just before the winter break Kaiserslautern lost a lot on the two teams ahead of them Braunschweig and Hertha who are in the fight for a direct promotion place already almost hurry away. It was very important that they won in Munich on Monday because of many teams behind them got also points and are on the way to close the gap. Of course they are 5 points ahead right now but they have not much left. If they want to save third place they have to win even. The pressure is high now and in front of their fans they have to continue their way. Dynamo Dresden started with 0-0 at home against relegation rival MSV Duisburg. This was not enough for them to get out of danger zone as they have still 4 points to VfL Bochum. More or less they should not lose here as it would be difficult to close the gap anyway.

I mentioned it already in an post on Monday that Kaiserslautern signed a lot and almost all were in starting lineup against 1860 Munich. But not all were as good as they should and therefore many guys have room for improvement. If they can do this today is not decided as coach Foda maybe change some as with Baumjohann an important midfielder returns from illness. In this case he should be set as playmaker while Köhler has to change on the left or right wing. One of the first candidate for bench should be youngster Weiser who played not on his best level on Monday. Because of some many options are available for coach Foda maybe more changes are possible. Also Azaouagh is an candidate to move on bench, wherefore Bunjaku move back as offensive wing and his place beside Idrissou can gets Hoffer. The defensive should remain unchanged.

New Dynamo coach Peter Pacult was very pleased with the first match and the draw as he does not want to change much. Although he has to make some as with sixer Losilla is an important man out with his 5^th yellow card. For him oldie Fiel hopes to get a chance and move in now. In offensive maybe gets youngster Müller a chance again although he was very weak against MSV Duisburg. This is probably not to be expected due to lack of alternative, because new striker Khlebosolov who should play beside Pote is not ready and was not even in the squad against MSV.   

Probably lineup:

1. FC Kaiserslautern: Sippel – Dick, Torrejon, Heintz, Löwe – Karl – Köhler, Baumjohann, Bunjaku – Hoffer, Idrissou

Dynamo Dresden: Kirsten – Gueye, Bregerie, Savic, Schuppan – Ouali, Fiel, Streker, Kempe – Müller, Poté

1860 München - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

It seems more and more that the first two places are already safe for Braunschweig and Hertha BSC while for third place we can expect a big fight from many teams till the end of the season and it would be maybe decided on the last round. Kaiserslautern stands on 3^rd position now, two points ahead of the others but the pressure is getting bigger as their rivals won or got at least a point and close the gap already on the weekend. If 1860 would be in tough with Kaiserslautern they must win this one and with 30 points they are back in promotion race, a point maybe helps too but if they lose they resigned even.

The internal dispute does not seem to be completely endured between 1860 und their Investor Ismaik. Much trouble in the past about but they want to continue their cooperation. It helps not much above all the players  can not take the focus on the upcoming matches if always some rumors around. As I mentioned already, if they want to hold the aim alive they should not lose this Monday evening match. However they are without their best striker/scorer Lauth who is still suspended and according to his stats he is very important this season. To compensate the lose of Lauth they signed one more striker with Rob Friend from Eintracht Frankfurt who came on loan. But after some problems with his health he is only on bench anyway. Better chances for starting lineup has Ola Kamara who trained very well or Bobby Wood. Another new face Fathi should be in starting lineup as he did a good job in training and therefore coach Schmidt count on him. The other option is Nicu but he has his strength more in offensive as on defensive. Overall no surprises expected in lineup from 1860 Munich, only that coach Schmidt does not count on Makos and Aygün anymore. Maybe they can leave the club.  

Wow, huge work done by manager Kuntz as he signed six new players in the winter break as they want to strength the team a lot and take advantage to get promoted again. It would be very interesting to see how coach Foda integrates his six new players and who stands in starting lineup already. Good chances are there for back wing Löwe who came from Borussia Dortmund, also midfielder Karl from Union Berlin and Benjamin Köhler from Eintracht Frankfurt while Drazan, Hoffer and Weiser are expected on bench first. The use of Azaouagh and Baumjohann is very doubtful because they were weakened with flu during the week. Of course some options less for coach Foda but he has a lot to choose now as they gave him the needed players. Pretty sure is for some experts that he wants to change the tactic and play with two strikers upfront, for these Idrissou and Bunjaku are set.