Energie Cottbus - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

What a great Sunday for Kaiserslautern because all went their way and they can open the gap to 4 points with a win today. This is only possible as Cologne got only a draw at home against 1860 Munich and disappointed again. This puts Kaiserslautern in a very good position in the race for third place. But nevertheless they must win first at Cottbus who is very strong in their own stadium. Sure they are on a bad run and the results were not the best in the past but they showed that they are able to beat teams above them. Maybe it is much easier for them as well as they are the team who can play from a deep and good organized defensive while Kaiserslautern must come and push according to their situation. This can open them a lot of space and maybe a match they like.

Cottbus comes from a lose in east derby against Dresden 0-1 where they lost their defender Börner due to red card, he should be replaced from Hünemeier who did it already in Dresden. They were not such bad and played well to beginning, sure Dresden push and invest much more as they need the points badly. After the red card the match was clear, one way from Dresden but missed to win with a bigger margin. Some players could not use their chance they get from Coach Bommer like Rivic and it is more as doubtful that these guys get another chance. It looks more that Farina returns as starter and maybe some other changes are possible as well. A big question mark stands behind the use of striker Sanogo who could not train so far and he wants to face a late test short before kick off. If he is not available Mosquera can take his place in starting lineup.

Despite the 3-0 home win against Paderborn some changes are expected as with defender Simunek is one player ill, so that Heintz move into the starting lineup and plays beside Torrejon in central back. On the wing he can choose between Weiser or Fortounis while captain Bunjaku returns and take the position from Hoffer who must on bench then. But all is possible, maybe Coach Foda does some unknown things and surprise some. It is not important who stands on the pitch, much more important should be that they win here but it is not so easy as many expect. The pressure is high in spit of they are one point above fourth place. It is more a head problem as many failed on Monday evening in the past. Also Kaiserslautern already !!!  

FC St. Pauli - Hertha BSC Berlin

After St. Pauli’s lose against Bochum 0-3 last weekend everyone is clear that they need some points to be absolutely safe. Otherwise it is getting closer and closer and the pressure is getting bigger and bigger for the last matches. They should try to bring it to end as soon as possible. So, today is the right time for sure, Hertha got promoted last sunday and celebrated a lot this week. Maybe they are not so concentrated and focused on this match that Pauli can take advantage of it. The pressure is gone for Hertha and they are in a situation who is not very easy after a lot of party. Of course, Coach Luhukay wants the title this season but they are one point ahead of Braunschweig and it is not a big problem if they do not win this.

After the big lose against Bochum Coach Frontzeck trust the same eleven as in Bochum. It is more he must as he has almost no alternatives. Indeed Buchtmann and Gonther are back in training after long injury time but they are not ready for the starting lineup. It is almost the same situation for Boll but he must play as he is very important as leader because with Kringe they miss an important midfielder. They have a lot of hope that Boll can lead the team for the win today.

With the statement from Luhukay that he wants the title said all, they want to bring all on the pitch they can and they want not to help anyone or give some gifts for some teams. In this case it is expected that he field his strongest possible lineup today. But if you take a look into the stats and look after teams who were promoted what was the result one week later? No team could win after they reached the target and the pressure is gone. Most of the time they played draw, sometimes they lose, what was the case in the past two years. Both teams at home with Hertha against 1860 1-2 and Frankfurt against 1860 0-2.

I gave you all the informations, decide of your own what you are want to do. GL

1.FC Köln - 1860 München

After Cologne could not win their match on monday evening they are 2 points behind third place where Kaiserslautern has all in their hands now. Due to this Cologne must win this one today if they want to overcome Kaiserslautern. Maybe this can lead that the pressure is getting much higher on Kaiserslautern who plays on monday evening. Therefore we have a change in the role again. It was always in the last weeks that Kaiserslautern or Cologne played on monday but they failed often both. If they want to hold their aim alive, they have to win here, as I wrote above. Their opponent comes without any worries and their season is gone and they play for nothing here. Sure a lot of trouble in and around the club as in the past weeks anyway. All about Ismaik or he is against and so on. But this should be another story, they are happy that they can play soccer today.

Very important news for Cologne as both suspended players returns today. With midfielder Strobl and Top striker Ujah he gets some options back. And they should be in starting lineup immediately as they have a lot of class above all Ujah who can help with his goals anyway. The nigerian returns and it seems that Stanislawski change his system to old style with 4-4-2 which was played often in the past and they had success with it. In defenisve row no changes expected, in midfield maybe if Strobl move in, Lehmann must on bench, in offensive Ujah for sure beside Maierhofer while Chihi must on bench after his not very good performance last monday. One of their key players Clemens stands on the pitch, he is in great form at the moment and looked very good in Duisburg. He can be the different in this match.

After 1860 lost 1-2 against FSV Frnakfurt at home Coach Schmidt was very angry and he want to change a lot today. Despite all trouble they want to concentrate them on this match and want to give all what they are able to bring. Of course, the season is over for them they play for nothing and this can be a motivation problem as well. Schindler and Halfar must maybe on bench while Stoppelkamp and Bülow replace them. Also Volz is not sure for the starting lineup. I do not think that they go for 100% here although he changes a lot.

Fortuna Düsseldorf - Borussia Dortmund

Newcomer Düsseldorf lost their form and they get more and more in trouble now. They were far away from relegation trouble few month ago but after a very bad streak they are only 3 points ahead of place 16 and there can be that they fall down more if they do not start to collect points. Very hard match ahead but nevertheless they must do their best to get out of this run and get some puffer between them and place 16. Of course it is not so easy but they should come back to their style of play that made them so strong. This was more defending with all 11 and if they get the ball they should start their counter attacks over their fast wings what they did in first half of the season. In their last matches they were not able to keep a clean sheet and they had a lot of problems in defensive, against Dortmund it is not easy anyway. Maybe hope gives them the return of their best offensive player Kruse who was out last match.

If there were not Bayern Munich in the league this season Dortmund were the champion again. They played a really great season and they saved almost second place which is very important anyway. They play great at the moment and they run from win to win. Almost same as Bayern but they lost to much in first half of the season. But they are doing well and their strength was shown once again under the week against giant Real Madrid, all think that Real is in good form and Dortmund has no chance, but have you seen this team, have you seen how they worked, have you seen what all of the 14 players was able to bring on the pitch at the right time. Wow, and this after a big mistake from Hummels where most of the teams has given up but not this Borussia Dortmund. Of course after such a big match and an absolutely important ahead in Madrid Coach Klopp wants to wait what players are fresh enough to play against Fortuna, but he wants to rotate a bit for sure. Pisczek was out after 80. Minutes and he has a lot of problems, so he will be replace for sure from Großkreutz or Kirch. Also in midfield some changes expected where Sahin or Leitner can play while Santana plays for sure in central defensive for Hummels or Subotic. In offensive Lewandowski can get a rest but he wants the record from Gerd Müller and therefore it is not sure if Klopp let him out but Schieber can be an option here.

At normall sign there can be only one winner and this is Borussia Dortmund. But after such a big match and the match in Madrid ahead I think that there can be some chances for Fortuna to get here some. Sure it depends all on their performance as Dortmund plays as always and it is only up to Coach Klopp how strong he wants to field his team. If Fortuna let Dortmund come and go over their fast counter attacks it can be that they are able to hurt them. Overall I do not think that they are for 100% with their heads at this match, they think more at Madrid on Tuesday. This is their main target now to go to the final. So, maybe Fortuna gets some gift here?

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,75 @ 1,98 (3 Units)

FC Augsburg - VfB Stuttgart

Only 4 matches to play and we go into the deciding period now. Augsburg was almost relegated at winter break with only 9 points on their side but they managed it to do much better in second half of the season and they collected 18 points from 13 matches. They looked much better and their play was much more aggressive and powerful as some month ago. Coach Weinzierl, Sportmanger Reuter and all the players did a good job so far, they are in a good position with 3 points ahead of Hoffenheim with goal difference on their side and also only 3 points behind Fortuna Düsseldorf. All is possible for them, from direct relegation until remaining directly. Some good matches followed some weaker once but they are not machines and ups and downs are always there above all in this situation where huge pressure do not always force a good performance. But nevertheless their last home match was very good above all after Hoffenheim's win they must almost win and they played really good and overcome Eintracht Frankfurt were easy, the win was never in doubt and Ji scored twice for a very good atmosphere in the stadium. Sure it was also the weak performance from Frankfurt who were not able to put some pressure on the defensive form Augsburg and overall they are to harmless these days anyway. One week later they were a bit unlucky and they lost only 0-1 at Gladbach due to a penalty and the red card for Voigt put them in a bad situation in this match. They tried a lot but they were to harmless before the goal as almost always this season. They hardly score but on the other side Gladbach had a lot of that scoring opportunities but waste badly, never seen such a stupid offensive play. Therefore situation is clear, they have to get points and should not lose at least this match but they face a very difficult opponent this time.

High flying Stuttgart is very hard to beat at the moment and the wins against Freiburg gave them all their self confidence and power back. The pressure is gone because with their win against Freiburg in Cup 2-1 where they advanced to the final against Bayern Munich they are already qualified for Euro League next season. This means they play only for themselves and they only want to have fun. Of course this can be that they take it to easy but what I saw in the past matches they are focused enough and want to bring all on the pitch they can. The team worked well and they did a great job. Also they play for a better position in league as it is very important for the TV budget. Maybe this knows no one but the better the rank, the more money they get. They are unbeaten in 3 now and they conceded only 1 goal in these. It looks like that the team is in good shape now and they play very good together above all their midfield can create very easy with players like Traore, Harnik, Maxim, Gentner and in defenisve they are very stable now. Also some plus can be their wings Molinaro and Sakai as both try to put additional pressure with their approaches. This can be a key factor also their Top Striker can be one as he is a much better scorer and with all the players to assist him it is not obvious.

Sorry I can not let this match alone. Of course some of you say Stuttgart plays for nothing and Augsburg is in a must win situation. Yes all correct but overall I see that Augsburg has to open here and they have to go for the three points while Stuttgart can sit back and relax and overcome Augsburg with their well known counter attacks. Why should I not believe in the third best away team who is in good form and get a good HC. I am very confident that they can hurt Augsburg and if Augsburg continue their way with missing goals it is not very easy to win. So my three Units are on Stuttgart today.

Recommend Bet: VfB Stuttgart AHC +0,25 @ 2,06 (3 Units)

Erzgebirge Aue - MSV Duisburg

Through the win from Bochum yesterday, it is almost a must win situation for Aue. They are under huge pressure today, if they fail it is going not to be in their hands should Dresden get the 3 points in Frankfurt against FSV. A point is still enough to be ahead of Dresden also they win. But it makes it closer and closer anyway. On the other side they face an inform opponent who are not out of all and need points for their own here. They are 7 points ahead of Dresden but if they lose here and Dresden win, the gap is closing again and it can be a very hot atmosphere in the remaining games. So it is important for MSV as well not to lose here.

Sure Aue got two draws against top teams like Kaiserslautern and Braunschweig and this gives them a lot of self confidence and also if they got the points, it was not so easy above all against Lautern where they played only with 9 men but made the equalizer. But nevertheless this matches are gone they must look forward and have collect points. Very important is the returning of Paulus, Kingbeil and Pezzoni who were all suspended against Braunschweig while Nickenig is suspended now but they can replace him as they did with the other guys. According to the changes in Braunschweig due to the suspended players Coach Baumann must change again a lot as all are back and they play all. So a big rotation in team again and this can be a bit difficult as the others made a good performance. Now back to all style of starting lineup can be dangerous.

MSV is in good shape, made good matches but were lucky on monday evening against Cologne were they got a draw but they played bad and were lucky not to lose this. No, their attitude was excellent and they made the equalizer after a nice header from Bormheuer. This push them additional and they want to safe them as soon as possible therefore they should not lose today. Despite the weak performance Coach Runjaic does not change his team, he counts almost on the same eleven as against Cologne. Wolze is back after suspension and could be in starting lineup immediately while Perthel move back to his normal position and absolute weak Ibertsberger is again out of the team. Goran Sukalo is still out and is well replaced from Öztürk as he does already in the other matches.

Overall a difficult match but I think that MSV has the much better moment on their side although Aue made some good matches in the past but they change again a lot. Sure, a lot of experienced players are back but for a small team so often rotation I am not a fan from it and they look not well balanced then. I give MSV much more chances to win this one, above all their fast wings can do the job. The form is there and hopefully they continue their run.

Recommend Bet: MSV Duisburg AHC +0,25 @ 1,94 (3 Units)

1899 Hoffenheim - 1.FC Nürnberg

This can be the last season for 1899 Hoffenheim in 1.Bundesliga. The project appears to be failed. Too many coaches, sport managers and so on wasted, no real structure in evidence. They try to change a bit now but maybe it can be to late as they are 3 points behind place 16 and 6 behind place 15 what is not reachable anyway. They only have to look on 16 and Augsburg at the moment. It can be a very hard task for them as only 4 matches remaining to turn things around. Ok after Gisdol is on the sideline it is a bit better now and they managed to win the important match against Düsseldorf 3-0. In this match it was only the early goal who help them a lot and gave them a lot of space for their counters. Against Wolfsburg it was good as well, they were 0-1 down and start a comeback to 2-1 but conceded a very late equalizer. Nevertheless they were in a good position after these two matches but last weekend against Leverkusen they missed almost all again. With 0-5 they were far away from anything. They can only hope that they can return to their normal effort and look forward what they can get then.

After a long run, Nürnberg lost two in a row above all their home lose in derby against Fürth hurt a lot. They are unbeaten in 11 home matches and their big rival Fürth defeat them. The fans and all around the club are very angry about, sure they play still BL next season and Fürth must go down but a blemish remains forever. Things going not to be such easy for Coach Wiesinger now as he has to replace both central defender with Nilsson suspended and Klose head injury. This means that they field a total new central back which never played in such formation. Maybe they change some in their lineup and midfielder Simons move back and beside him a young guy. Balitsch can move to central midfield while Frantz comes in as starter. But let's see what Wiesinger wants to field. Another question is behind their free kick weapon Kiyotake who is light injured. If he is also out it would be getting worse for them. Nevertheless they are almost safe and need only 1-2 points if at all.

1899 is almost in a must win situation, no they are. The pressure is getting higher and higher the fewer games remain. With a win they can go even with Augsburg but only if Augsburg lose. So they are dependent on others. But first they have to win their own match what is not such easy because I do not think that Nürnberg gives a gift away. They are not safe and they want to win as well, also it is not sure if Wiesinger is on the sideline for next season. He needs some arguments and only points or wins help him to get the trust from Bader and the management. So it would be an interesting one although Nürnberg miss some imp. players.

Union Berlin - Jahn Regensburg

After 4 matches without a win and very bad performances Union Coach Neuhaus was very angry of his team. They talked a lot this week and they know now that the season is not to end for them. They have still 4 matches to play and they should try to get the credit from their fans back. In addition Neuhaus pushed a lot in training and the players saw that they are not on vacation already. The week was very hard for them but maybe important to weak up some. On the other side bottom team Regensburg was very weak in the past too and they made a lot of mistakes as always and they could only win a single match in second half of the season so far. Therefore they are one of the first relegated teams, with only a point today they are down. With a win they have to wait but I doubt about that.

A lot of changes are expected as a lot of players could not convince against Aalen where they lost 0-3 and looked very weak at this time of the season. 3-4 players move out of the team and some new once come in and get a chance today. Most probably plays Stuff and Schönheim on central back while Parensen get the position in defensive midfield. Also Quiring is an option as fast wing while Terodde and Nemec are the striker pair. Nevertheless they have to push today and should try to get the 3 points as they are maybe get a lot of trouble with their fans if they lose against the bottom side.

Maybe it looks a bit better for Jahn Regensburg before the match against Union. Sure they have a lot of missings (Rahn, Djuricic, Lauritio, Kotzke, Kurz, Machado) again but with Altinay and Nachreiner return two players who should be in starting lineup immediately. Both can take their positions in defensive row and give coach Smuda a bit hope that he can field a stronger eleven as in the past. Also important is that Hein can go back to his position in central midfield where he can give the team much more stability while Haag should replace Machado on the wing. 

MSV Duisburg - 1.FC Köln

This is the last game in 2.Bundesliga to close Round 30 on monday evening. An important west duel between MSV Duisburg and 1.FC Köln, where both are in a situation to win this one. Sure MSV not in such an important way but they need some points against relegation because many teams behind them won or get some and close the gap to only 6 points. This can bring some danger again if they fail in the next matches but they are on a such good run in the second half and they worked so well that I doubt they get in danger again. With a win it is almost done for them. On the other side Köln is in a must win situation because they opponent for third place Kaiserslautern won and is 3 points ahead now, this means they can only close it with a win. The pressure is getting much higher now and the situation is much different as in the past, where they played first and Kaiserslautern followed. This time different and let's see how they can handle this, Kaiserslautern failed last weekend.

After 10 points in the last 4 matches MSV has a lot of self confidence and looked very good in the past matches anyway. They play much better as to begin of the season and they work as team now where everyone give all for the team. This is a step forward and they showed what they are able to bring. Their performances got rewarded and a lot of supporters will be in the Arena today. This can be a big match for them, the only blow is that Goran Sukalo is out due to injury. He can be replaced by Öztürk who replaced him some time already. Also Kevin Wolze is suspended after his 5th yellow card, while Exslager can move into the team for him. No more changes expected as Coach Runjaic counts on the same as he does in the past.

Much more problems for Coach Stanislawski, he has to replace to suspended players with central midfielder Strobl and top striker Ujah. This is a huge blow for them above all Ujah was the man who gives them the opportunity to remain in promotion race with his goals. No changes in defensive row but in midfield Strobl can be replaced from again fit Matuschyk who can play beside Lehmann. In offensive maybe he counts only on Maierhofer up front while Clemens, Bröker and Chihi are behind him. This means that Royer and Pryzbylko who scored the winning goal against Aalen last weekend both are only on bench. 

Overall this can be a very close match, MSV in very good form while Köln has to invest much more if they want to go even with Kaiserslautern. This means that MSV maybe get some space and they are not such bad in such situations to take advantage of it. I am not so sure if Köln can win there, they had some luck in the past and also on the road, I remember against Dresden where Dresden were much better but lost due to wasting a lot. I do not think MSV is the same.   

Dynamo Dresden - Energie Cottbus

The situation getting is worse for Dynamo Dresden, sure they got 4 points out of their last two matches but Bochum with their new Coach Neururer managed to win two times now and this open the gap to 4 points. This means that they are absolutely under pressure today, as they have to win this if they want to get a chance to leave place 16 what means two qualifying matches additional. And for sure a lot of pressure more in these two matches. Maybe some think that they have the right opponent because Cottbus plays for nothing, they are safe, 9 points to third place and 12 points to the red zone what means all impossible to reach for them. Of course they want not to bring some gifts to Dresden, this is a east derby and they want to win this for their fans. Also what no one knows, it is very important in 2.Bundesliga what place you get in the end ... better place more TV money !!!

Ok, Dresden was able to get some points but their offensive is very weak, many times this season they were not able to score or get it done although they created very good situations. Maybe they miss their top striker Pote more as they want to believe. It is not out yet if Pacult change some, but Jänicke as wing was very bad against Union and should be on bench again while Kempe should get a chance or he wants to play with two strikers where Fort plays beside young Müller. Defensive looked well in the past matches and so no need to change something. All is possible and I said it already, Dresden must win and they have to risk some here. 

Cottbus with some problems in defensive but their offensive is also a big questionmark. They scored only 7 goals in second half of the season and this said all. If you look on the table you know now why they fall down huge. At winter break they were in the race of promotion but missed all in second half and this was also because their top striker Sanogo is absolutely out of form and he scored less till nothing. Fast wing Farina can move in the team and help to play a good counter style today. Unlike the offensive the defensive can be the same as against Bochum. They conceded two goals but this were only due to their unlucky actions with an own goal and a counter goal as they opened a lot. 

Eintracht Braunschweig - Erzgebirge Aue

With their 3-1 win at Sandhausen Eintracht Braunschweig showed that they are on the way to promote and no one doubt anyway because with a open gap from 10 points and only 5 matches to play it is almost impossible for them to fail in the end. On the other side Aue is still in trouble and not safe yet. Of course they managed 4 points out of their last 2 matches but all the others made points as well and it is very important to get points as fast and as much as they can. Despite all their problems.

Not much changes expected against Aue because Coach Lieberknecht was very pleased with the performance in Sandhausen and he wants to give the same players his trust again. Only defender chief Dogan returns from suspension and should be in while Petkovic gets the place in goal again. Davari is still on the bench. With Dogan in defensive row they should have a lot more stability and he push his team very well, not known is meanwhile if Correia returns on the back wing position or if Kessel gets a chance again but he made a good job in Sandhausen anyway, so no need to change. Offensive is the same as always, only one weapon more with Kruppke who returned last weekend as joker and he scored already. This gives Coach Lieberknecht a very good option and feeling because he knows that he has one player on bench who can help to get the win if it looks a bit difficult.

All were very happy that they got a point against Kaiserslautern on monday. They were only with 9 men on the pitch and Kaiserslautern was up 1-0 but they made it and scored the late equalizer after free kick. Maybe this gave them an additional boost for the upcoming matches and relegation fight in the upcoming weeks. Nevertheless this match made big problems for Coach Baumann, he has to replace 3 suspended players in defensive now. With Klingbeil, Pezzoni and Paulus are important players not available today. For this a lot of changes must be made by Baumann and he has a lot to think how he can defend Braunschweig. Many changes within and outside the team, Schlitte move on the other side, Müller move back on Schlitte's position, Hensel comes in as defender, Höfler plays for Pezzoni and Könnecke maybe offensive for Müller who moved back one position. You can see a lot of changes and maybe some players are not on their normal position. But they do not complain, just stick together and give everything to avoid relegation.

Bayer Leverkusen - 1899 Hoffenheim

The season enters the decisive phase and nothing is decided yet, ok Bayern Munich is champion this year but all the other things are still open. Also if Bayer Leverkusen can hold their third place because they are only 4 points ahead of Schalke 04 who looked in good shape in the past matches. Therefore Bayer should try to get as much points as they can to let Schalke behind. It looks like that they have a much easier task as Schalke, this can take them in a good position and they hope all that they can take advantage of this round. But it should be hard work because Hoffenheim fight against relegation and need every point to hold some hope alive. Nevertheless Bayer is one of the better sides at home this season and they should be able to overcome Hoffenheim with their individual better players. 

What a comeback from 1899 Hoffenheim after they were almost dead they are back in the race and with 4 points out of 2 matches they are on a good way to close the gap to Augsburg. Maybe if both continue their way to collect points it is not obvious that Düsseldorf and Bremen get in danger for the last matches as well. The important  change on the sideline maybe help them additional and gave them a boost. It seems that Gisdol found the right words and tactic and they trust him, sure it was late but not to late maybe. With much more self confidence and motivation they can look forward but they should not be to optimistic because it will be a very difficult match and opponent anyway. Not many changes expected as they did their job in the past. Of course it were much weaker opponents with neighbor Düsseldorf and weak home team Wolfsburg but what is easy in Bundesliga.

The stats are all on home side and it is obvious as Hoffenheim could never win a match against Leverkusen since they are in BL. The same against Bayern Munich, all the others they were able to win at least one. At this important stage both teams have to invest all they have in their legs and this can be a very tight match but overall with some advantage for Bayer Leverkusen. I do not think that it is so easy for Hoffenheim as in Wolfsburg where they walk through very easy. Leverkusen looks much better above all at home and I think they are worth a try today.

Recommend Bet: Bayer Leverkusen AHC -1 @ 1,79 (3 Units)  

Eintracht Frankfurt - FC Schalke 04

This is an important match for both teams and maybe this can be a decider if Frankfurt has the change to get fourth place or if Schalke open the gap more. Frankfurt missed a lot and they lost their good style from first half of the season where they played really impressive offensive soccer. This has changed a lot so far above all they faced a lot of problems in the past. Be it, many injured, suspended or out of form players gave them a big setback. Of course as newcomer they can not hope for a constant season and also they have not such a deep squad to compensate these problems. If some of their important players are not on their normal level it is very hard to win matches, this happen, and they are more than happy that they are still in this position to reach an international place for next season. But for this they have to stop their scoring problems, I am sure that they can do this although without important players again because keeper Trapp, midfielder Schwegler (doubtful), defender Jung and striker Meier are four starters out. Nevertheless maybe they get more space against a team from Schalke who tries to win as well. But can they find the right balance to overcome them? It is very difficult to estimate and I think they have a short bench as well with some youngsters or they do not field all. Coach Veh mentioned that he has one man less on bench as normal. More as difficult today.

FC Schalke 04 is back in business after a long and hard time above all Coach Keller was not very pleased about the Press and reports about him and his team. Despite all these problems he managed it to bring them back to fourth place and they are much more successful in the past matches. Their only remaining competition is Bundesliga now and they can concentrate them on the upcoming matches to bring this season to a good end. After Keller made some changes on some positions Schalke played much better and also some players are much better now. One of them is Julian Draxler who played many times on the wing but in central offensive midfield he is much dangerous now and had good performances as well. Sure they are without some long term injured players like Affelay, Papadopoulos, Huntelaar and Obasi but these guys are not available untill winter break so no worries, the only one is Farfan who got a fresh injury and is out for this match but the rest are all there and can therefore Coach Keller can field a strong starting lineup who is more as able to win at Frankfurt. They are doing well away from home and they played good also in Nürnberg where they lost unlucky 0-3 but if they had used one of their big chances to beginning of the match they should have won this too but if you miss 2-3 mega chances it is as always in soccer, you lose. Bremen was bad first half but in second they played really well and won deserved. Overall I see them on a good way.

This encounter can produce goals because both are in a situation they can not sit back and if one of them take the lead, the other side has to come out and put all in what they have available and it can be a lot of space for the fast wings on both sides. Moreover with Frankfurt's missings it is more possible that Schalke try to press to get the win but on the other side with Gladbach's win yesterday Frankfurt is almost in a must win situation if they want to get a EL Spot for next season. I like the over here and also Schalke because Frankfurt look a bit out of form and short on bench. 

Recommend Bet: FC Schalke 04 AHC -0,25 @ 1,88 + OVER 2,75 @ 1,96 (each 3 Units)

1.FC Kaiserslautern - SC Paderborn

We have a different situation this round, was it always Colonge to play first and Kaiserslautern has to stroke back one day or two later is Kaiserslautern now in the position to play first and put a lot of pressure on Cologne for their monday match. Sure it can be an advantage but Kaiserslautern has to find the right way and balance after their desaster in Aue. They was 1-0 up and played against 9 men but they were not able to bring this match home and it was more or less their arrogance what made Coach Foda so angry. He wants to see a reaction today and he put a lot of pressure on his players, maybe this can be the wrong way but let’s see as Paderborn is without any worries and can play totally relaxed.

To their weak performance they need a boost now to overcome Paderborn, maybe they get a lot of help form their excellent supporters today. They push a lot and it is always an excellent atmosphere there. I wrote it already, with a win they can open the gap to 3 points and Cologne has to fight back on monday. Maybe some changes are done by Foda as he was not very pleased with and it can be that Azaouagh and some others must on bench, also many counts on both strikers Idrissou and Bunjaku if they are not working it is hard for them to win matches.

Also a weak performance made Paderborn one week ago. They were not able to win against bottom side from Regensburg although they were one men more on the pitch. This said all where the problems are at the moment. They are not able to create or score and it is an important thing in soccer. Coach Schmidt was also not very pleased with his team and he wants to change some too. It would be very interesting what tactic Schmidt wants to try .... more defensive or an open one.

It is clear normally, Paderborn can sit back and try to play from a deep defensive over counter attacks while Kaiserslautern needs the points immediately in the race for third place. For this they have to invest much more and try to put some pressure on Paderborn who can produce mistakes and maybe give Kaiserslautern some opportunities to score. But if they play like against Aue it is very hard, they need a much better attitude.

Jahn Regensburg - FC Ingolstadt 04

The situation is clear, Regensburg is almost relegated, sure not yet but they never can turn this around with an open gap from 9 points to place 16 and only 5 matches remaining. Hope is always there until it is clear but sooner or later they have to bring all their power on the way to build up some plans for 3.Bundesliga season. On the other side Ingolstadt is not safe yet and they need still some points to be absolutely safe and it looks good as their form going up in the past matches and more and more the fun returns to them.

Not much has changed till last week, again a lot of problems for Coach Smuda because he has to replace Rahn, Lauritio, Djuricin, Nachreiner, Kotzke, Kurz and Altinay. A lot for a small club with a close squad. New in this listed players above is Nachreiner who booked and is suspended here. This means that they must changes again in defensive row and all these changes do not make it better or give them more stability. Nevertheless they want to fight and show that they are able to bring a good performance on the pitch. This is almost their last squad available and more problems with scoring and defending arrive. They are not able to score more than one goal in the past matches, how should you win matches then or because they conceded in almost all matches in the past, it is hard even for them.

I wrote it already above, Ingolstadt is not safe with their 36 points, they are only 8 points ahead of the drop zone and if they lose this one and Bochum / Dresden win it gets dangerous. So it is very good that they are on the way back to their normal strength now. They had a weak period where they are not able to bring something on the pitch and therefore they are closer to drop zone now as they want. But overall they are positive again now after their point against league giant Hertha BSC and looking forward to this bavaria derby. Additional a good sign for them is that all players are available for Coach Oral and he can choose what he thinks to be the best choice for this encounter. Only missing is midfielder Roger who is suspended but he can be replaced, so no problem.

Regensburg with a lot of problems sure wants to invest all in this derby but I doubt that they are able and with one of the better away teams as opponent it can be very hard for them anyway. Ingolstadt was only beaten on the road from Top Teams like Cologne, Kaiserslautern and Braunschweig. Ok, the last lose was against Aalen but they were not much weaker in this one, it was more even or maybe on their side but lost a bit unlucky. I am confident that they are not losing this derby and I like the DNB here.

Recommend Bet: FC Ingolstadt 04 AHC 0 @ 1,80 (3 Units)

SC Paderborn - Jahn Regensburg

This match should be a clear thing for Paderborn on paper but they should not underestimate Jahn Regensburg above all they are almost relegated and therefore they can play relaxed and easy while Paderborn are also without worries but they want their fifth win at home this season. Of course Jahn Regensburg tries to fight big to make the wonder possible but never believe in it anyway. Away from home they made some better result and they are a bit harder to play there as some result shows. But their biggest problems always it the last 15 minutes, where they conceded many many goals and lost a lot of points additional. Thus to this Coach Schmidt gives some warning for his players that they are as much focused as they can and give all today.

Some good news for Paderborn because with Meha returns their free kick specialist from suspension and this can be a key factor as well for this match. But on the other side they have a big questionmark behind the use from striker Hofmann as he was ill and returned at least on saturday to the team. He is not at 100% and still a big etiolated and a place on bench should be the best for him. Otherwise all players are available, only two guys with Feisthammel and Wissing are out injured. Coach Schmidt has not much reasons to change the team although they played only draw against Union.

Much more problems has bottom team from Regensburg, they have a lot of injured players and Coach Smuda must change a lot if he wants to bring a good starting lineup on the pitch. With Rahn, Lauritio, Altinay, Kurz, Kotzke, Djuricin and Ziereis doubtful they miss a lot of important players who stands normally on the pitch. This is almost to much for a small club like Regensburg, the only hope should be Ziereis who travelled with the team to Paderborn and face a last check if he can play maybe. As alternative Smuda has Erfen and Weidlich on back wing position maybe. But nevertheless they are very keen to get something but it must a good day and all must go their way and they should not produce many mistakes.

I am very optimistic that this encounter have some goals in it because Paderborn played really well against Union and should have won this one but they missed or wasted a lot but they were able to create a lot and this makes it very interesting as Regensburg are always prone in defensive and they allow a lot. Moreover they are in a must win situation anyway and must open, so it can be very good for Paderborn to get a lot of space. I like the matchup where goals can be there for sure.

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,75 @ 2,16 (3 Units)

1.FC Köln - VfR Aalen

An important match for Cologne to streak back after their huge lose against Kaiserslautern last weekend. They must win this one to remain in promotion race while Kaiserslautern plays in Aue on monday. With a win they can overcome Kaiserslautern and put some pressure on them. But first they have to do their home work and get the win against a difficult opponent form Aalen. This team is very hard to play above all if they are on the road as they are much better there although they got a win after long time at home last round.

Coach Stanislawski tried to bring the players heads free for this match and they should be as much as focused they can. Also a lot of supporters are expected, so that they will be push from the beginning on. This match Cologne must invest much more and they should be again more offenisve minded as they were in Kaiserslautern. For this, Stanislawski counts on two strikers with Maierhofer who has to bring something on the pitch as he is not a really reinforcement so far while beside him Ujah is in great form and helped the team with his goals much more. Maybe back in the team is Jonas Hector who was replaced by Eichner after his injury but he can move in for Matuschyk on central midfield. Some alternative can be Lehmann on this position too but he disappointed a lot in the last matches if he stands on the pitch, so a big questionmark if Stanislawski trust him. The other disappointing guys are Jajalo and Bröker who can be also out of the starting lineup but it seems that one of them playing for sure because less alternatives.

With the win from last week, Aalen got some self confidence back and they are almost safe which means that they can play very easy and look what they can do to annoy Colonge a bit. Almost all players are ready and therefore Hasenhüttl can choose from a lot, the only one Cidimar has some problems and is out for today. Because they were very pleased with the performance in the past match they count on the same starters as last week. But they do not want to let Cologne the win as many expect Aalen does not play 100% as Hasenhüttl knows Cologne and was former player there. They want to win every match and this is their target for the last 6 matches.

Fortuna Düsseldorf - Werder Bremen

After newcomer Düsseldorf came very good into the season and they managed it to collect some points to stay away from relegation battle. They had some advantage after the winter break but their good play is gone and they are on a huge downtrend in second half and are much worse now. They did not find the way to win matches and therefore they get more and more in trouble and the gap to place 16 are only 5 points now, sure some puffer there but it is getting closer and closer. Their advantage was much bigger but winless since 7 let the others come closer. This means that they are under huge pressure now while the other matches they did not have the pressure as much as they had now. One of the key facts are their defensive, they worked well in first half but in second half of the season they are almost without keeping a clean sheet and therefore they are not able to win maybe. But overall they are a very good home side and they are hard to beat, I was very pleased what they played against Leverkusen although they lost 1-4. This match had maybe go on their side as well but they missed to use their chances. But overall they play very fast and good counter if they get the possibility. With Bodzek and Bolly they miss two important players but they must look forward to collect points with the players who are available.

Their opponent is almost in the same situation right now and they are neighbors in table from second half of the season. They did not win a match since 6 and they are in a very weak situation as well. With such good players in their rows they are not able to win matches, maybe too many mistakes, to much self display, no self confidence, no motivation, not interested to work as team, many out of form and so on. It can be many reasons why this is one of the weakest season in BL for Bremen ever  this time. They played a good first half against Schalke but as always they were not able to take the lead and in second half Schalke awaked and changed some in their lineup, moreover Bremen gave them the opportunity to score two easy goals. Both mistakes where made by defender Lukimya who had some awful matches in the past and always some risk in defensive row.  

Both teams under huge pressure because both are almost in a must win situation, home side (29 points) to hold the other teams behind and on distance while Bremen (31 points) not to get in relegation trouble or let Düsseldorf overcome them  at the end of the season. Very interesting match, where both teams have to push and try to get the win, but while both showed not much stability it can be a very open one. The one who can minimize the mistakes and hold the pressure away should be more able to win this encounter. I expect a very open match with a lot of space and with many opportunities to score. I fancy the over and additional the home advantage.

Recommend Bet: Fortuna Düsseldorf AHC 0 @ 2,11 + OVER 2,5 @ 1,87 (each 3 Units)

FC St. Pauli - 1860 München

Important match for both sides, St. Pauli in some relegation trouble while 1860 needs the win to stay in promotion race. Sure if 1860 miss third place it should not be the problem from their away performances, these are very good and they are only behind top teams like Hertha and Braunschweig in this category. Only their home stats are the key for their problem. Nevertheless they are only in race if they win this encounter, if they draw, this is to less and almost all is gone then. On the other side St. Pauli is a solid home side and they are only 7 points above the red zone therefore they need some points if they want not to get in danger.

After their 2-3 lose against Dresden last weekend where they lead already 2-0 it must be out of their heads and they should recover very fast. For this Coach Frontzeck wants to changes some in defensive as they conceded far to much in the past matches and with Avevor he saw a weak point there. Very good for him is that Schachten returns from suspension and this is the first option now. Kalla move to left wing while Schachten plays his position on right wing again. In midfield hero Boll is not at 100% after his injury and is only on bench, nothing more but he can help maybe if he comes in. In this case Funk and Kringe are on the positions in central midfield. Also some changes in offensive as with Gyau and Bruns are two players out, for them come Gogia and Thy in starting lineup.

I wrote it already last weekend, huge trouble in and around the club above all Investor Ismaik made this. A very hard task for Coach Schmidt to bring his team on the right position and try to hold the focus high for this match. His future is also unclear as most of the others in the club. So the mood should be not as high although they have some chances for third place. One important thing maybe is the returning of Halfar in midfield as he can create a lot but if he is on the level to play 90 minutes, I doubt. Thus for him must be Tomasov on bench. No more changes expected.

It is a important match for both despite St. Paulis lose against Dresden I think that they are able to beat 1860 above all in their stadium. This can bet he right time to streak back also if 1860 had a run away from home with 4 wins in a row. They are doing well but they had problems to score anyway. Close match, but DNB on home side is ok for me.

Recommend Bet: FC St. Pauli AHC 0 @ 1,75 (3 Units)

FSV Frankfurt - MSV Duisburg

This can be an absolutely top match because both teams are in very good shape and both are on a very good run. FSV Frankfurt played their best season in 2.BL so far and MSV Duisburg recover a lot from first half of the season and made a very good second half. Above all FSV looked very solid at home and they played well and created a lot and also scored some. This was not always the case, as they are normal a low scoring team. But nevertheless this encounter can be very hard for them because MSV coming from 3 wins and they are out of releagtion trouble moreover they are safe now.

But MSV do not want to sit back and celebrate their last good matches, no they are hungry for more and they have a very good mood in their rows after the last matches. This gave a lot of self confidence for the following matches. They want to climb more in table and get a better place, they want to show their strength. Coach Runjaic first aim is to rech the 40 points and then we can look forward what is possible. Some MSV players are huge motivated as they played for FSV already. Midfielder Gjasula wants to show that he can hurt his former club with good assist and ideas. Sure he is not at 100% after a long injury time but he is ready and very happy to stand on the pitch again. No worries for MSV Coach, he has almost all players available and can choose the best eleven he think.

FSV had some problems under the week because with Yelen and Verhoek missed both some trainings. But Yelen should be ready while Verhoek maybe is a doubt here but he can be replaced from comebacker of the week Kapllanni who scored twice against Regensburg. It is more difficult to predict the defensive row from FSV as with Gledson returns one long term injured guy and can be an option for Möhlmann. Beside Schlicke played Konrad or Heitmeier but second on can be in squad form U23 team who plays in Worms today. So let’s see what Möhlmann choose today.

FC Ingolstadt 04 - Hertha BSC Berlin

Six Rounds before the end, I think no one doubt about the return from Hertha BSC to 1.Bundesliga. With a win today, the third place will be safe for them if they lose their last 5 what no one expect anyway but if Kaiserslautern lose on Monday they are promoted. Ingolstadt can be also very relaxed about the situation with 35 points they are far away from relegation trouble and they are 9 points ahead of this places. But nevertheless their aim is to get 40 points plus but in their last matches they are not in such good form and they won not much, also their personal decisions are a bit heavy so that the players are not working as team now. Huge trouble there and around what makes it not much easier for Coach Oral. Their negative run (3 loses in a row) has to end if they want to bring this season to a good end. But exactly at this time they face the giant from Berlin, who is for sure very difficult to play what makes it a difficult task for them to get back on track today.

Coach Oral changed his team on 7 positions last weekend but it brought nothing. They lost again. Nevertheless he wants to change huge again because with keeper Özcan and defender Schäfer are two players back who had to pause last with injury. No option for the starting eleven should be striker Eigler who is absolutely out of form after his injury. He needs some time to find back to normal level and thus only on bench. Also not clear is who field Oral on central midfield as Groß was not on his best level and had some weaker performances. He wants to think about and maybe give Leitl a chance here although they do not count on him for next season anyway.

Leader Hertha made a big step with the win against Braunschweig on Monday and they walk on now. It is only a matter of time when they are promoted. The starting lineup played well and so no major changes must be done by Coach Luhukay. Ok, he has to do some as with Niemeyer and Pekarik are two starters out with injuries. This means that on central midfield beside Kluge are one open place which can be taken from Morales while on the right wing are Janker or Ndjeng are options. In offensive no changes expected, Ronny is in good shape and their promotion hero but the others are also in good form and should be able to heap a lot of pressure on Ingolstadt’s defensive.

Overall this match is very different, Ingolstadt with a lot of problems at home, win not much while Hertha is one of the best away sides. This can give the advantage here and they can overcome Ingolstadt very easy above all their scoring efficiency is huge above from Ingolstadt. Let’s see what they bring on the field. Ingolstadt never won against Hertha but played the last two matches draw against.  

Hannover 96 - VfB Stuttgart

As almost in every season Hannover must count on their home strength to reach an international spot again. It is very close this season and many teams have chances so it would be very helpful to collect as much points as they can. They did them a favor with the win in Augsburg but this was only due to stupid Augsburg who were not able to use one of their 100% chances and it came as it must in soccer, the other team score and this was Hannover 96 who finished two excellent counter attacks. Everyone know their style of play but if they are up they are very hard to beat because they get the space they need and with their excellent fast players in offensive they are always able to overcome their opponents. Sure at home it is a bit different but they are very successfully there with 8-3-2. Additional boost should be the return of striker Diouf after he was suspended against Augsburg.

On the other side Stuttgart had hard weeks behind them and with the win against Frankfurt they showed that they are able to stay away from relegation fight. Sure with 32 points they are not absolutely out of danger but they are a bit safer. Nevertheless they have to continue their way and manage some points to be absolutely safe. For this Coach Labbadia must replace defender Niedermeier who is suspended and also wing Harnik is not available due to his 5th yellow card. Sure a blow for them but they can count on Traore, Maxim who is in excellent form, Kvist, Gentner and Ibisevic in offensive. So 1-2 players they can be replaced but they know the situation very well and should find some way as they had a lot of problems with injured players this season already. With Cacau, Torun and Didavi they miss 3 long term injured anyway.

The matchup should be clear, as only with a win Hannover 96 can close the gap to the top 6 where they want to stand in the end again. This means an international spot for them and this is their aim.  We can consider Hannover as strong home team and they score much more at home as away, they are always very dangerous in their own arena while Stuttgart is very unstable in defensive but have also some weapons in offensive who can make some trouble therefore OVER should be a good choice in this encounter.

Recommend Bet: OVER 2,75 @ 1,99 (3 Units)

1.FC Nürnberg - FSV Mainz 05

Who jump higher today?

After first half of the season and Hecking’s decision to leave Nürnberg to Wolfsburg it looks more or less for a big disaster because where to get a good and experienced coach to continue the good work. But all my respect to the responsible of Nürnberg. They kept the peace and were looking for a suitable solution. They found an acceptable solution with Wiesinger and Reutershahn and after some matches they saw that they made a very good decision. Both working very well together and do all for success.  They lost only one 2013 so far and this was against Dortmund where they were without any chance. The other matches they played well and got rewarded for their effort. But overall they won not much as many draws shows. Sometimes they had a lot of luck too or maybe they use the weakness or stupid mistakes from their opponents. Their last two matches they were such kind of luck. At home against Schalke they were more than lucky because Schalke wasted a lot and as always in Soccer if you miss much the opponent score with his first attempt. This happened here but with a doubtful action from Feulner who changed the direction of the ball with his hand for a good shooting position and the following goal. This lead played in their cards and the game turned more and more to their favor. Last one was in Wolfsburg where coach Wiesinger choose the wrong tactic with midfielder Esswein as striker upfront, Wolfsburg took the early lead and they were up 2-0 at half time but as Wiesinger change his mistake and count on Pekhardt upfront while Esswein move to his normal position on the wing the match was controlled by Nürnberg very well and they heap a lot of pressure on Wolfsburg’s back who were not able to do anything against. With a lucky goal from Simons (sure a dream goal but he never score such a goal again) Nürnberg came back and with a free kick from Kiotake who was finished by Nilssons header let them get a deserved draw in the end.

On the other side we have the same situation for Mainz. They are only beaten one time 2013 but also not many wins, many draws like Nürnberg. This is only because they wasted so many good opportunities in their matches where they were many times the better side but were not able to bring it to end or score more at least. Too much depends on striker Szalai and Ivanschitz or Müller. If these players are not able to score or use their chances it is more than difficult to win matches. Once again, it was to experience against Bremen last Saturday. They took the lead, a very early lead, dominating the match but forgot to score more. If Müller had scored the 2-0 as he was in a very good position the match would have been decided but football is cruel and therefore Hunt equalized two minutes later and let Bremen getting a draw. Although Mainz rides a wave of draws they are still in a good position for an international spot. Coach Tuchel stands for good work and he knows to motivate his team very well. Additional he has some problems on both back wing positions because with several players unavailable he must tricks again but Pospech and Bell did a good job and they are set for this positions again. Above all Bell has a very good record (5-3-0), if he plays this season. Maybe this can be a good sign as well for them.

1860 München - Energie Cottbus

Through the win from 1.FC Kaiserslautern against Colonge on Friday has 1860 Munich the possibility to close the gap to third place to four points  with a win against Energie Cottbus today. But for this 1860 must end their weakness at home and start winning matches now. With no win, three draws and two loses they are very bad in their stadium as the last five matches showed. Meanwhile has Energie also chances for returning in promotion race but also only with a win because they are two points behind 1860.

Despite all the unrest caused by investor Ismaik around the club trys Coach Schmidt to put their focus on the match against Cottbus and use some tricks to beat the negative home serie. As they were are very successfully on the road he changed all and let his team stayed at the hotel this time and, moreover, could also compete in the green away trikots today. No major changes expected, they did their job against Aue and this eleven have a chance again. Excellent wing Halfar should be back in team after his injury and should sit on bench, what gives an option more and are good news too.

Cotbus disappointed at lot in their last home match against Aalen where they could took the lead but a few minutes later they conceded the equalizer. Sure they tried to put some pressure on Aalen but their offfensive is only harmless these days. Therefore some changes maybe expected. But nevertheless some problems because with Sörensen is one offensive player sure out while Farina and Sanogo face some problems and are doubtful. If both get a break, it is very hard to find alternatives as the other do not play better at the moment or in better form. This means that Adlung gets a chance as well although he was not on his best level after his suspension and disappointed too. Additional he is short before to sign for 1860 Munich for next season. From beginning on should be Stiepermann on the pitch and help to get more power in the offensive actions. For Sanogo maybe can be Mosquera in the starting lineup but he showed not much after his signing at winter break.

Overall an important match for both as both has to go for the points and this can maybe a good opportunity to get in a good betting position during live. Whatever you want, goals, home or away, watch the match and take in mind. GL