Champions League Final !!!

Regional League Bavaria

I want to bring up this post, as you see this was not such a bad idea, hopefully some of you took advantage of it. The Champion comes from Munich but it is not Bayern, their neighbor 1860 Munich won the title. They play in play off (2 matches) against second team from South West League. It is not decided yet because Kassel 67 Points and Elversberg 65 Points fights in last Round for the title. Both teams plays away from home, Kassel in Idar Oberstein while Elversberg meet Wormatia Worms.

For new season we had a big change in lower leagues like Regional South, West and North. They do not exist longer. DFB created 5 Regional Leagues like North, North/East, West, South/West and Bayern. This was one of the biggest reform for lower leagues in the past years. We will see a lot of new teams and maybe many unknown teams as well.

If we take a deep look into the Regional League Bayern we have some 2nd teams from 1. and 2. Bundesliga which have much more budget or potential as the newcomers. I think the title will be decided only between Bayern II, 1.FC Nürnberg II, 1860 München II, FC Ingolstadt II or Greuther Fürth II. All these teams are U23 with some leaders in their rows but most of their focuse are to form the young players for 1st team. But recent years showed that Fürth, 1860, Ingolstadt can play a good role there and also Bayern sigend some players for their 2nd team like Schweinsteiger from Jahn Regensburg, Altin Lala from Hannover and Stefan Buck from 1860 München. 

The other teams are mostly unknown and fresh faces in Regional League also their players which are almost all not played under professional conditions. Also most of them go to work and should not be on a such excellent fitness level as 2nd teams above. As i read do they train 3 times each week in the evening and under such criterias it would be a huge disadvantage. Some example was always Bayern Alzenau who moved to Regional South/West.

Regional League Bayern open their gates on 20. of July and you should take this in mind if you consider to take any bet here. I'm looking on the shedule maybe if the odds are out and give some advice then what are good or what I prefer.

Hertha BSC Berlin - Energie Cottbus

Actual this encoutner is only a friendly match because both teams plays for nothing. The seaosn is done for both and so it can be a very open and interesting match. Maybe some fun and show for the crowd in Olympiastadium. But not with Coach Luhukay, he wants to see his team totally focused on this match and he wants the win as always. He is an absolutely perfectionist and also focused on records. With one point Hertha can play the best season ever in 2.BL. And it can be a much better atmosphere in stadium for the celebration with a win or a draw maybe.

Against their 2-1 win in Cologne Coach Luhukay changes one time and it is an very important one as with Ronny is their playmaker in offensive midfield back after suspension. He is only one goal behind Braunschweig’s top Scorer Kumbela and he can go even or overcome him today as Kumbela is injured. So it would be not obvious that he wants to score today. The options are there with his wide shots and dangerous free kicks. In defensive midfield maybe also one change ... Kluge move back beside Lustenberger while Morales is out of the squad according to his announcement that he leaves the club and signed already at Ingolstadt.

After a long bad period Energie Cottbus rolling in the past matches and they made some good results. They are on an absolutely uptrend and they showed that they are not so bad as some said in the past. Their self confidence and believe in them is back and they played 3 good matches in a row now. Some changes in defensive row expected as with Schulze returns the normal man on the wing while Bitroff move back to his normal positoon and Rippert has to take place on bench. Also some problems with players who leave the club at the end of the season. So with Engel and Sörensen are two players not in the squad because of this reason.

Dynamo Dresden - Jahn Regensburg

After the 0-3 in Aalen is clear, Dresden or Aue must play relegation. They could not use the lose from Aue last weekend because one point should have been enough to overcome Aue and climb one place. Now for this weekend they need help from Sandhausen because if they win their home match against Regensburg Aue should not win that they can overcome them and be save.

First they have to do their work and then they can look on other places. Against bottom team Regensburg it looks more and more a very easy one but it is not the case. They play their season to end and they are very difficult to play anyway. Dresden has to invest much more as last week and they should be much more focused and do not the same mistakes as last match in Aalen. Some hopes comes back in defensive with Bregerie who was suspended for last match. With Losilla he should try to build up a strong central defensive and give the team much more stability. Also they have to play a bit more offensive to get the job done with a win. Therefore Coach Pacult wants to change a bit in offensive and brings with Fort and Müller two strikers on the pitch. On the wings can be Quali and Koch while in central midfield he counts on experienced players like Fiel and Trojan who can lead the team and also give a good rhythm for their play.

The season is gone for Regensburg and it was a more disappointing one. They made a lot of mistakes with signing players who do not help much, also some problems with injuries and so on was not in their favour also the luck. They want to bring this season to a decent end. Although they have not much alternatives left and again a lot of players are not available as almost all injured players are not returning. Only Rahn can be an option and should play after his injury. For him can be Erfen out of the team, all the others should be the same as against Kaiserslautern.

1.FC Nürnberg - Werder Bremen

Wow, Nürnberg played very good, they lost only to Dortmund in second half of the season and they were for long time unbeaten above all at home but after their disaster in Derby against Fürth 0-1 they were on a huge downtrend and they lost match after match. Never expected some from them after Fans dreaming of EuroLeague but woke up huge with this bad run. So it was more as wondering last weekend as they get back on track with this win against relegation candidate Düsseldorf. Maybe the self confidence and motivation is back for their last home match this season. All want a good and balanced season end, the whole team wants to celebrate with their fans a good last home match. They have to invest a lot if they want to bring their fans back on their side after a lot of bad results. Some of their players have some slight problems and maybe some doubts about their use but overall Esswein, Kiyotake and Balitsch maybe wants all to stand on the pitch. So no worries for Coach Wiesinger and he can field a very good and strong lineup then. He must only replace some injured players like Chandler, Ildiz and Gebhart. Also some others out but overall all long term already.

Many trouble in the past in Bremen, where they had a lot to do to avoid relegation or get not deeper involved. They managed it last weekend but they are on a winless run from 12 matches now. This is almost the same number as Düsseldorf has. Sure they started well in some matches and lead 1-0 or 2-0 but were never able to bring this advantage to the end. And so, it was a lot of trouble always after the matches and if Coach Schaaf has to go or should he continues with his work and so on. He was 14 years coach from Bremen now and he has only 87 days less as Bremen's Coaching Legend Rehagel. Because they sucked him this week. Sorry but this is not understandable because they should have played the last match in Nürnberg and then think about it or plan a new future with or without him. All in all this was not correct in many eyes what Manager Eichin did. They were saved last weekend, so no worries .... but he decided like this and they have to go on. With Rolff, Hönerbach and Kraft on the sideline in Nürnberg. This three should do the job for the last match this season. But they do not know with what players they should. With Arnautovic and Elia are two players suspended from the Club while Trybull, Füllkrug and Ekici are injured. Bargfrede is suspended for this match. But this was not enough for them, Sokratis got injured in last training and is not available here too. Also Yildirim and Hunt suffer injuries and are doubtful or out for this match. They bring some U23 to Nürnberg who are on the bench. With Wegner, Stevanovic and Wurtz are three youngsters in the squad. So not many options.

Of course, normally Bremen can be motivated here without Schaaf now but without 9 players which are almost all starters it can be very hard for them above all Nürnberg wants not to lose the last match at home and celebrate with their fans a good season end. Therefore I see Nürnberg in the much better situation and they can get the 3 points.

Recommend Bet: 1.FC Nürnberg AHC 0 @ 1,86 (3 Units)

Hamburger SV - Bayer Leverkusen

Of course Hamburger SV has still some small chances for an European Spot although their consistency was not the best over this season. They had not the stability they need to be placed higher according to their big problems to beginning of the season where they were much closer to relegation places but they managed it and turn things around. They start winning some matches and therefore they climbed up and put them in a good position for the last Round. Nevertheless they have to win this match if they want to have the opportunity for Europe. Sure some other matches must go in favor for them but despite this they should be only focused on their match and look only after the match what they get. At home they are not such bad that they are not able to win this above all their opponent Leverkusen plays for nothing and should be not so focused or motivated to win this match as Hamburg should. Coach Fink can field his best eleven as almost all players are available also the stadium should be almost full and their supporters push them as well.

Excellent season from Leverkusen so far, they are behind the top teams Bayern and Dortmund but this is a great success for them this season. They saved their place very early and it was never in doubt as Schalke were to unstable in their result. So they can look forward to the last match very relaxed and easy because they have nothing to play for. Maybe this can be an important disadvantage for them because players are not as focused as they should or it can be also better to stand under pressure to bring a good performance. Overall the only target they have in mind is that their Striker Kießling wins the Goalgetter race with Lewandowski. He is one goal ahead before last round and the device from all his team mates should be to assist him as often as they can. Of course it is not always easy but they try it for sure but with what personal it is very open. They miss some creative players for this match with Castro (sure out), Sam doubtful and Schürrle also doubtful (stopped training with ankle problems). Also some others are out.

Sorry but I do not understand such a handicap for a team who plays for something. They give a positive HC for HSV although they must win this encounter while Leverkusen plays for nothing. I see HSV much more motivated as their opponent also they play at home and I do not think that they want to lose in front of their home crowd the last season match. Therefore I have to take this opportunity and go for Hamburg this time.

Recommend Bet: Hamburger SV AHC +0,5 @ 1,84 (3 Units)

Hannover 96 - Fortuna Düsseldorf

For Hannover ends the season very disappointing, the last years they had a lot of success and reached twice the European Spot, this time they stand there with empty hands. The season is over for them and they play only for their fans. The last weeks were not very good for them anyway and they got not much. So the fans are very angry and it would be very good for them if they can win the last home matches to celebrate with their fans at least the last match. A lot of work to do for the  new Sportmanager Duffner in the next weeks, to build up a strong team again for next season. For this match Coach Slomka must count on the players who are available because some of his squad is not available with illness or injuries. Abdellaoue, Franca and Husti are out.

Match for their life !!! Fortuna Düsseldorf can put all problems behind them with a win here. According to the table position a win let them play 1.Bundesliga next season for sure again, with a draw or lose it depends on other results from teams like Augsburg and Hoffenheim. With only 9 points in the second half of the season they are the worst team in BL. They play not such bad and they fight a lot but they waste to much with their created opportunities. At home they are good and got some wins as well but away from home they are more as harmless and this make it not much easier for the last and important match. Also if Hannover sit back and Düsseldorf must come and make the match, it is more as doubtful that they can win then.  Nevertheless all plays for their future and the future form Düsseldorf, this should be everyone clear. One more season in top class would be a huge success with their low budget. Some of the players are not available like defender Levels suspended, defender Latka and Balogun injured while Raffael and Voronin are not in the squad for some reasons in the past.

This is almost the same situation as Dortmund – Hoffenheim, we can expect an open match at the end and maybe some options are there for a good inplay position. I like the goals here too. So let’s see what happen but you should be aware that you must act quickly in the end.

Borussia Dortmund - 1899 Hoffenheim

This is the last home match for Borussia Dortmund this season, stadium should be sold out as always and many oft hem expect a win against relegation candidate Hoffenheim. Of course Dortmund plays for nothing and have their heads more on the Champions League Final one week later. Nevertheless will Coach Klopp field his best available lineup as they want to get some rhythm for the Final. Also they do not want to lose the last home match at home above all at their great crowd. Also they do not want to continue their relaxed attitude from the last match against Wolfsburg where they got only a draw after they were 1-3 down. For this all must get back to their normal level and should be as focused as they can. Not in the squad is midfielder Götze, as he is not ready yet. He works on his comeback and should be in training with the team next week and therefore ready for the big match against Bayern Munich on 25.05. at Wembley.

This is the absolultely last chance for 1899 Hoffenheim to avoid relegation. This can be only if they win their match and one of the teams above Augsburg or Düsseldorf fail totally. Therefore they have to invest all and go for the win but it can be a much too high step for them. If they go all in they have to open a lot and this can be the decider because Dortmund with their players use this space and score. According to this situation they have to hold as much as they can and maybe find the right balance between offensive and defensive or they go only for defensive and try for the late punch. Many options are available for them, nevertheless how the match is, they have to win, nothing more and nothing else. With which lineup Coach Gisdol wants to make the wonder it is not out yet. It depends all on the tactic he wants to use. Maybe some home for them because in 4 matches Borussia Dortmund could only win one but on the other side they got 3 draws but they need the win. 

Overall a good game to go for it in running, above all for goals. But all depends on the result but I am very keen that we can catch some. At the moment I think the line is a bit to high to get involved but as I said, in play is good enough. If Dortmund take the lead, Hoffenheim must open more and more, on the other side if Hoffenheim take the lead I never doubt that Dortmund does not want to fight back for their fans at least. For me an interesting one.   

Jahn Regensburg - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

The positions are clear for this match, Regensburg is already relegated while Kaiserslautern open the gap to 5 points last weekend. They need maybe one point for saving third place because of their good goal advantage beside Cologne. This is the last home match in 2.Bundesliga for Regensburg and they want to play for their fans today on the other side Kaiserslautern must try to find a better way as in the past. Above all away from home they are very harmless and they could not win much, otherwise they would have been placed higher.

Jahn Regensburg plans already for 3.Bundesliga and there can be a lot of changes in team. Also Coach Smuda left the club and they need a new coach as well. Nevertheless two matches remaining and they have to try to bring it to a good end. Although the luck is not on their side this season as they played not really bad in some matches but the outcome was less. Also they made a good matches in Aalen last weekend but lost 1-2 again. Sure this nibble on the players and they do not know how to make it better as they did their job not so bad. Maybe lack of experience and the last step in front of the goal or so can be the problem here. Not many changes expected, only if Koke is ready he plays alone striker while Carlinhos move out from the starting lineup. Some players have options from other clubs, so they want to make some advertising for herself and bring them more in focus for other teams. Midfielder Hein and Striker Sembolo seems to have the best chances here.

Top at home, average away. These are the stats from Kaiserslautern but nevertheless they are close to reach at least third place what give them an additional chance for 2 promotion matches against 16. placed team from 1.Bundesliga. They are short before, maybe one point or a win out of 2 matches is enough for them. I think this can be never in doubt, they should reach it. Against their top performance last weekend Coach Foda has to change twice because Azouagh is out injured, for him can be Köhler the alternative while captain Bunjaku has also problems and is not available here. This is the chance from Hoffer who can make some promotion for a new contract at Kaiserslautern.

Fortuna Düsseldorf - 1.FC Nürnberg

Almost the same situation in Düsseldorf as last weekend. But this time they are at home and they must win now if they want to remain in 1.Bundesliga. This is a must win for them anyway. The stadium should be sold out and this give them an additional boost too. Fortuna was far away to come in trouble, they were almost 9 points ahead of Augsburg and they never think that this can be so close in the end of the season. They are even with Augsburg now, only the better goal difference speaks for them at the moment. Their bad performances also result wise in second half of the season let them fall down huge. Nothing there from their strong and good play from beginning of the season, they lost almost all and also had some problems in front of the goal. This is an additional problem which cost them points. Also the mood in team is not very good at the moment as they had a lot of fights in training. A lot of players are angry of the others and this was again this week where Coach Meier must stop the preparation for Frankfurt. With all this bad moments and problems it is very hard to see them working as team altogether. A lot of work to do for Coach Meier and his team to find the right balance and not to get deeper in danger. Nevertheless they have to let all behind them, this is the match to go nothing else. Coach Meier must replace defender Latka and back wing Balogun.

Nürnberg played a good season so far despite the lose of Coach Hecking to Wolfsburg under the season but Wiesinger and Reutershahn made a good job and hold Nürnberg in 1.Bundesliga. They saved now with 38 Points and should be without any worries in the upcoming matches. They play for nothing and this can be a problem here as players without any pressure are not willing to work hard. They slow down and give not all they are able to bring. This can be maybe a problem for Nürnberg in this encounter. Sure they talk that they want to stop their four matches losing run today but if they are motivated enough to do so, I doubt. Nevertheless their fans are not very pleased about the performances in the past also the Derby lose against Fürth hurts a lot. They had a good run but after they lost in Munich very easy they are on a huge downtrend and they could not return to their normal form in the past. A lot to do for coach Wiesinger this week. Nürnberg is without defender Nilsson and Chandler.

Fortuna is know for their aggressive play at home and they need it today, on the other side they can not play such defensive today because they need the win badly. So this can bring some space for Nürnberg and Düsseldorf is not so safe in back as they were to beginning of the season. This can bring some goals as Nürnberg can hurt them with the quick wings. If Düsseldorf fall behind they must go all in anyway and open a lot. On the other side I see Nürnberg also not so stable at the back with Nilsson out and what they were able with young Dabanli beside Klose or Nilsson they showed it in Hoffenheim. Many mistakes. So I like the goals here.

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

Relegation Fight

Werder Bremen - Eintracht Frankfurt

What a bad season for Bremen, I do not know them such bad. Of course they are still ahead of the other teams and they have the best position but if they fail again today it can be very dangerous for them and it can be an absolutely Final next week in Nürnberg. Therefore they should try to win this home match and get out of the bad situation. They was up 2-0 against relegation candidate Hoffenheim last weekend but they conceded two late goals. The moral and mood after this desaster is not such good but Coach Schaaf must find some way to bring them back on track. Coach Schaaf again without both bad boys Arnautovic and Elia while Wolf, Füllkrug, Trybull and Ekici injured.
On the other side Frankfurt plays one of their best season above all as newcomer they surprised a lot. Above all in first half of the season where they overcome their opponents very easy and scored also a lot due to their offensive style of play. Second half was much weaker but they are on a good way in the past matches and an European Spot is reachable for them. They must continue their way and it can be a great end for them. Veh must replace Schwegler, Meier doubtful.


1899 Hoffenheim - Hamburger SV

The downtrend from Hoffenheim maybe was stopped to late, they can not repair it, or can they? They are two points behind Augsburg, therefore they must win this encounter and they getting a real final next weekend. But first they have to win against HSV. In the last matches they showed some uptrend under new coach Gisdol and they made some points what hold them in the race or give them the chance to avoid relegation. Nevertheless they have to replace a lot of players with Polanski suspended, Vestergaard suspended, Gomes, Derdioyk and Williams injured.
Hamburg has only a chance for European Spot if they win this one, but if it depends on the results from all the others above them. So first to do their work and they can look to the others. They was not in best shape in the past above all against Schalke and Wolfsburg showed that they are not ready for Europe. Also some financial problems makes it not much easier above all for next season where many players maybe must leave the club and bring some money in their empty cash box. Despite all this problems they have to focus on this encounter and they must win this anyway if they want to have a chance, it is absolutely needed, as EL money gives them more space. No imp. missing.

3.Bundesliga Update

Karlsruher SC - Hansa Rostock

KSC is on top of the table and they are in a good position, they can be promoted with a win today, maybe a draw is enough as Bielefeld and Osnabrück plays against each other. So this can be decided that they are back after one year absent. They are very strong at home and lost only one match so far. The team is hot and should go the last step today. Rostock on the other side missed a lot of former days and they are only average and lost 10 times on the road what is one of the weakest numbers this season there. The decision come under the week that Coach Fascher must leave after this season and they want to try to build up a new team for next season.

Arminia Bielefeld - VfL Osnabrück

An important match for both teams. If Bielefeld win they are promoted, if Osnabrück win it gets very close and it can be that 4 teams plays for second place in a big final next week. If they play draw it can be also very open, it depends all what Heidenheim and Münster do. Nevertheless Bielefeld wants to decide this today but without their top scorer Klos it can be hard although they are on the same level as KSC at home. They are very strong. Osnabrück on the other side wants also back in 2.Bundesliga but it can be difficult. Coach Wollitz mentioned that he put all effort into this match and hopefully his team as well.

SpVgg Unterhaching - Preußen Münster

Home team plays for nothing their season is almost to end and they can only give some for their fans if they have the right attitude. But Teams without any target, it is very hard to get them focused on a match where they are not interested anymore. Münster was up under top 3 in the past weeks but had some bad results in the past and they are down to fourth place, this can be an important match for them, as both direct contenders plays against each other as mentioned above. So Coach Dotchev looks only on third place at the moment because with 4 points to second and only 2 rounds remaining it is a lot. 

1.FC Saarbrücken - FC Heidenheim

Saarbrücken is always difficult to play and it is more a grab bag, you never know what is in it. They have some good performances and on some days they are absolutely weak. They play also for nothing maybe only for a better place in table to get more money from TV. Heidenheim has a lot to play for as they failed last weekend against bottom team Dortmund. They have to look forward now and they must win this match to stay in race of third place or maybe more. All depends on Bielefeld - Osnarbück .... but first they have all look on them self and win their matches. Heidenheim has to change their keeper, Sabanov ist out with injury while Sattelmaier plays today. He played already in Cup under the week and they won, maybe a good sign. 

FC Schalke 04 - VfB Stuttgart

An important match for Schalke 04, they must win this home match to let their opponents no chance for fourth place. This target is very important for Schalke because they need the income from Champions League for their expensive squad. Despite a lot of names were mentioned in the past and many talked about who can be the new coach for next season they give Keller their trust. He signed a new contract and they want to publish it before the match today. They played very good in the past home matches but they miss an important player with Draxler suspended today, on the other side is fast wing Farfan back in the squad and can maybe help to bring some more dangerous with his fast actions into their offensive play. All the others are available, so Keller can field a good lineup for this important home match.

On the other side Stuttgart is not an easy opponent above all away from home they played really good and collected some good results. They are one of the best away teams this season. After a good run around their Cup semi final they are on a downtrend because they were beaten twice from bottom teams like Augsburg 0-3 and Fürth 0-2, they scored not a single goal against such teams. It is very hard to see that they can bring Schalke in danger then. But, ok this can be a clear other match and it can be much more space for them as the mentioned. Schalke must come out and fire from all guns to get the win while Stuttgart can sit back and go over their counter attacks what can be a very dangerous thing above all with Traore and Harnik on the wings while Maxim central and Ibisevic upfront. In defensive they have some problems because with defender Rüdiger and Sakai are two players from defensive row out. Ok, Tasci returns and can replace Rüdiger also Hoogland comes in after long injury but he can not has the right feeling after long time without any match.

Lines are very high and gone already, maybe this match can be a good option for some in play betting. Schalke must come and push because they need the win to make fourth place safe. Also goals are good if Schalke fall behind. GL

Eintracht Braunschweig - Energie Cottbus

This is the last match from Round 32 and it is only a friendly match as both play for nothing. Braunschweig celebrated almost the whole last weekend their promotion while Cottbus maybe had some party after their win against Kaiserslautern. So the pressure is low in this encounter and they can go all very easy and relaxed into the match. Maybe Braunschweig wants to make some party with their fans as they are back in Bundesliga after 28 years absence. Energie want to continue their good play maybe also result wise which they started against Kaiserslautern. Therefore it would be very interesting which team can put more effort into this match.

After the target is reached it looks like that Coach Lieberknecht gives a lot of players a chance in starting lineup who played not so often in the past and were only on bench. He must change a lot anyway because a lot of players are unavailable. With Boland suspended, top striker Kumbela, Correia, Vrancic they miss 3 starters injured. This can be a mixed team from normally starters and subs. But I do not think that this is very important today, the only thing which count is the promotion one week ago.

Despite some mentioned things Energie Cottbus Coach Bommer said that he has only his last squad available. So he can not choose from a lot and makes it very difficult to find the right balance and players for today’s lineup. Defender Börner and Bittroff are replaced from Hünemeier and Rippert again while striker Fomitschow is a big doubt after he made a good match against Kaiserslautern after he came in as substitute. Also Sörensen is not available. So a lot to do for Coach and team to be as good as they can and not to give some gifts.

1.FC Kaiserslautern - FSV Frankfurt

And the next big point ahead for 1.FC Kaiserslautern after Cologne’s lose yesterday they can take advantage in promotion race because they face a direct opponent with FSV Frankfurt at home and therefore it is all in their hands now. Despite their lost points in their last two away matches where they lead 1-0 against Aue almost till the end but conceded a late equalizer and also against Cottbus they lost 2-4 last monday. Nevertheless they are in a good position and they know that they are very strong at home as the numbers shows. They kept a clean sheet in their last 5 home matches and they overcome their direct rival for promotion Cologne very easy with 3-0. Against FSV Frankfurt who is a small club they can go the next step and open the gap to 5 points with a win.

But FSV Frankfurt is in good shape, they are unbeaten in their last 5 matches and they collected 15 points from these matches. They are coming closer and closer because all teams above them lost points while they won almost all. OF course they are an absolutely outsider in this match but this can be the key maybe as they have not the pressure on their side. No one expecting anything from them and they can play as always. Their season target is reached with avoiding promotion and so they can look forward what they are able to get and can be very proud and happy about it. They are on a very good run since Coach Möhlmann is on the sideline for them. They collected since 2011 68 points with him, only Braunschweig was better in this period. Also they are one of the best scoring teams. Their offensive worked very well and they are very dangerous what give them a lot of opportunities. This is their best season in 2.BL since they promoted 5 years ago. And if they win this one, they climb up to third place and let the big giant clubs like Kaiserslautern and Cologne behind them. They have only a budget from 5 Mio. while both others are in a much higher class.

A lot of trouble at Kaiserslautern above all after the lost match against Cottbus last monday. It is only because Idrissou gave some statement about fans and referee. For this it was very close that DFB or the club suspend him for this match but it is gone now. Coach Foda does not want to let him out because he needs him. Because of the suspension from Simunek he must count of the same team who played in Cottbus. So Heintz and Torrejon in central back. Despite 4 goals against them it was not only youngster Heintz who had a bad day, it was the whole team. They must work much better against the ball today what Coach Foda wants.

The situation for FSV Frankfurt is getting better this week. Some of their injured players returns what gives Coach Möhlmann much more options for his starting lineup. Midfielder Gaus is suspended again and he will be back next match against Bochum. But he can count on Yelen, Schlicke and Huber again. Ok, it is not sure if Yelen is at 100% but for some minutes he is available and with his good standards always a weapon for FSV. Defender Schlicke should be back as starter as he trained since Thuesday again while Huber gives also some positive feedback that he can play.

Eintracht Frankfurt - Fortuna Düsseldorf

Here we have another match where both have still to fight for. Eintracht Frankfurt for the European spot while Düsseldorf getting deeper and deeper into relegation trouble. This means that no one can sit back, no, both have to invest all what they are available at the moment. Of course both are not known as the best in front of the goal and it could be that the team who take the lead getting a huge advantage during the match. But home advantage should be also considered as important as Düsseldorf has not the best results away from home and puts Frankfurt up as favorite here.

As newcomer they play one of their best Season ever in Bundesliga and they are close to get an European spot. They are even with a lot of teams and all of these have the chance but they should not lose more points above all at home. Of course it is not always easy against deep standing teams and almost all knows the style of play from Frankfurt now. Their lightness and freshness is gone maybe this is because the pressure is getting higher at the end of the season if you are in such a position. All expecting much more and they must handle this first but they looked better in the last matches again. Also they should try to be as focused as they can also in front of the goal to set this bad run an end. If their offensive players find their way back to normal performance hopefully it can be an opener to their scoring mood.

Fortuna was far away to come in trouble, they were almost 9 points ahead of Augsburg and they never think that this can be so close in the end of the season. They are even with Augsburg now, only the better goal difference speaks for them at the moment. Their bad performances also result wise in second half of the season let them fall down huge. Nothing there from their strong and good play from beginning of the season, they lost almost all and also had some problems in front of the goal. This is an additional problem which cost them points. Also the mood in team is not very good at the moment as they had a lot of fights in training. A lot of players are angry of the others and this was again this week where Coach Meier must stop the preparation for Frankfurt. With all this bad moments and problems it is very hard to see them working as team altogether. A lot of work to do for Coach Meier and his team to find the right balance and not to get deeper in danger.

Recommend Bet: Eintracht Frankfurt AHC -0,75 @ 2,05 (3 Units)

1.FC Nürnberg - Bayer Leverkusen

Nürnberg played a good season so far despite the lose of Coach Hecking to Wolfsburg under the season but Wiesinger and Reutershahn made a good job and hold Nürnberg in 1.Bundesliga. Of course they are not saved yet but they are almost or on a good way. Overall they have 38 Points and should be without any worries in the upcoming three matches. If they can get one or two points out of these matches it is enough. After a long run from unbeaten matches they are on a huge downtrend now. They lost three in a row and the team looked very weak above all in Derby against Fürth and also in Hoffenheim. No motivation or attitude visible in these matches. Maybe the standard was to high and some expected to much above all their fans. This can be also an indicator and the performances under pressure are getting worse. They have to concentrate them on the upcoming matches and put all their effort in it to get the needed points as soon as possible.

Leverkusen played a season without any worries so far and they are close so safe third place who is very important for them anyway. They are many points ahead of Schalke and it depends how Schalke plays on Friday if they can reach third place without doing anything. But overall they need one point, this can be enough for them and their season is done. Their form was good in the past and they got the points they need although they had an incredible bad run away from home where they could not win much, only the derby against Düsseldorf 4-1. In all the other matches they were not able to get much. Despite this bad form away from home they should be able to bring a good performance on the pitch but always in their head that maybe one point is enough. Why should they invest much more, as always a horse jumps just as high as it needs to reach the goals. Similar with Bayer Leverkusen here.

I mentioned it already, maybe one point is enough for both and they reach their target this season. So it can be that this match ends with a draw. According to Nürnberg’s good home stats and Leverkusen’s weak away with less wins it can be that a draw is more than possible. Of course Leverkusen has much more class in their rows as Nürnberg but they can compensate this with team spirit and commitment. So the HC on home side looks very interesting for me in this case.

VfL Bochum - 1.FC Köln

After three wins out of three matches with new Coach Neururer on the sideline it is more as euphoria in Bochum. The confidence for a better future is back in town and this only because Neururer arouse some atmosphere of departure. All around the club want help that they avoid relegation and push their club as well. It can be a lot of support today again, and this can be an additional motivation for them or the pressure getting to high maybe. Because the expectations are high after this streak now. Nevertheless they need the win here as Dresden won yesterday and is close to Bochum now, what put a lot of pressure on them too. On the other side their opponent has the same problems but not at the bottom, they are on top and fight for third place. They need the three points here as well. And after failing a lot in the past matches they are in a more as must win situation if they want to overcome Kaiserslautern and put them in a good position. While Kaiserslautern and FSV Frankfurt face each other it is a very good situation for Köln but only if they win. Therefore they must bring a much better performance as in the past two matches where they could only get draws against MSV and 1860.

Home team is expected to field the same lineup as against Sandhausen last weekend. No problems for Neururer to count on the same team who won. Their self confidence and motivation should be as high as it can after their last success. They have a much better mood and attitude now. All knows what they must do and it is very important for their region or VfL Bochum to remain in 2.Bundesliga. Goretzka and Aquistapace had some problems to begin from this week but they are back in training till wednesday, so no worries that they are not available. Only striker Aydin must be replaced, as he is out with injury while Delura can play for him then.

Maybe Stanislawski counts on the same lineup as against 1860 but many doubt about it as some were really weak and so they need some freshness in team. This can be that Maierhofer move back into the starting lineup while Przybylko must on bench again. He can help against free kicks from Bochum in defensive as well, so this can be the better option for Köln. No more changes, maybe Stobl was an option for the double six in midfield but he was ill under the week and could not train much, so he is more on bench as in starting lineup. Overall all must improve a lot and they should try, if they take the lead to go for the second, they took the lead against MSV and 1860 but changed their style of play and go not for the second, and this was the key not to win these matches. It can be a very hard and close match because both need the points. 

Bor. M'Gladbach - FC Schalke 04

An important match ahead, both teams fight for an European Spot therefore they should not lose. Home side is in though with EL-Places and maybe CL is also possible if they win against Schalke. With 44 Points they are in a good position right now but they should not lose more Points above all on the road they had two matches without getting a Point. They played well in Wolfsburg but where not able to use one of their great opportunities to begin of the match, normally they should have been up 1,2-0 already but it comes as always if you missed, they fall behind after a lucky goal which was reflected from Galdbach defender Brouwers where keeper ter Stegen had no chance. After the break they tried a lot and they get rewarded with the equalizer from Mlapa. But a few minutes later a big mistake from keeper ter Stegen destroyed all and they were not able to bounce back again. Therefore they lose in the end 1-3. After that lose they are under huge pressure again at their home match against Schalke. It looks more and more that Favre changed his system and he let them play much more offensive and attack earlier. This said all he wants to reach EL again this season.

Although Schalke is in an excellent Position for fourth place who is very important for them they have a lot of trouble about the Coach Position for next season. Some said that they are agree with Effenberg as new coach while actual Coach Keller has the information that he is on the sideline if he reach fourth place. So it is only an act at Schalke again. Nevertheless an important player is back with Huntelaar who scored already 3 against Hamburg on weekend and lead them to the win. They are 3 points ahead of 5^th place and can go a bit more relaxed in the upcoming matches. Despite their advantage they should be mindful as they had not the best result in the past away matches. They played well to beginning of those matches like Nürnberg, Frankfurt and so on but forgot to score or missed a lot and in the end they have to travel home with empty hands. I am sure that Coach Keller point out this and advise what they can do better. Not available that he can help here is wing Farfan who is not ready 100% and should be out again.

Overall an important match for both, both must win here but Gladbach much more as Schalke who are in a better position. So it can be that Gladbach must come out and fire from all guns, this can maybe put Schalke on counter attacks but what I saw in the past away matches from them they try to control the match and they did it well but the only thing who were missed and is very important in football were goals. So, I expect a very close match were both try for the win but if it ends up in a draw it is not bad for both either. Also I do not understand why Gladbach got a positive HC here who is very strong in Borussia Park while Schalke won not much on the road. So I have to go for the home side here.  

Recommend Bet: Bor. M'GLadbach AHC +0,5 @ 1,85 (3 Units)

Hertha BSC Berlin - Erzgebirge Aue

We can say that the target is reached for Hertha BSC but they do not want to sit back and relax or give some gifts away as the last matches showed. They played really good and if they fall behind they invest a lot and streak back and won 3-2 in the end although they play only for the title. But this is exactly what Coach Luhukay wants. For this they need maybe two wins and they are Champions of the 2.Bundesliga Season 2012/13. On the other side we had a big surprise at Aue, they changed their Coach although they got good results against top teams like Kaiserslautern and Braunschweig but failed in an important game against MSV where they got only a draw. According to this they are only 3 points ahead of Dresden and maybe the fear is around to fall down along. Maybe for this reason they changed to Falko Götz and fired Baumann. Although they played not bad in the past matches but they wasted a lot as always because they are not able to score.

It is very funny because Götz returns to his former club where he had a lot of success and had a lot of good days there. But nevertheless he has to bring Aue back on track although I mentioned it that they played not bad but are not able to score. His task is to avoid relegation for Aue and hold them away. This is not any easy one but he said that he is very confident and he wants not to change a lot only to work that they finish much better as in the past matches. Also it is not clear how many changes he wants to make and what lineup he fields. The only is clear that he counts on the same system as former Coach Baumann. Additional he has to wait on what players he can count today as with Paulus, Schröder and Müller are three players doubtful. Sure out is Kastrati with flu and Nickenig with suspension. So it is more as unknown on which Götz counts in such a difficult situation above all against leader Hertha who looked very good in the past matches.

Hertha Coach Luhukay plans some changes in defensive as with Ndjeng is the back wing out with suspension, so it is very welcome that Pekarik returns from injury and can replace him immediately today. Also both central midfielders with Kluge and Niemeyer are still out and therefore Morales and Lustenberger plays on this position as they did against St. Pauli. So again instead of Lustenberger Luhukay need a new defender because Franz played there last weekend but more bad as well and he is suspended anyway. So this time Hubnik gets a chance at central back beside Brooks. Additional is Kobiashvili not in the squad today, he should be replaced from Schulz on the back wing. In Offensive it seems no problems for Luhukay and he can field his best available offensive.