1.FC Nürnberg - 1899 Hoffenheim

Statistic:

- First match between these two teams was 2009/10 in Cup where Hoffenheim won 1-0.
- In recent 4 BL-games between these sides were overall 18 goals, this is an average from 4,5
- In these 4 matches scored Nürnberg 10 goals and Hoffenheim 8.
- But in the first 5 matches against Hoffenheim, Nürnberg could only score twice.
- Nürnberg is the first team without a win after 17 matches and therefore first half of the season.
- FCN is the team form all top leagues in Europe without a win (Negative record).
- But a lot of hope for Nürnberg, because in the past years the team on place 17 never get relegated.
- Hoffenheim did not win to beginning of the the second half of the season (4 times - 0-2-2).
- But Nürnberg won only one of the last 5 opening matches to second half of the season (1-1-3).

Home side miss for this encounter some important players which got injured in some friendly matches like defender Pogatetz and Hasebe. Both should have been in starting lineup and therefore Coach Verbeek has to chance now. With young Stark is the next option in midfield out. Not a good sign overall, but they signed with Petrak a good young and talented player who should help them anyway.

1899 Coach Gisdol has not so much worries and he can choose form almost all.

I think that not many changes happen on Nürnberg's side only the two players must be repalced and this can be that Pinola plays again in central back what he did already against Schalke very well and in midfield is Feulner / Balitsch or Petrak an option for Hasebe. All the others are the same as at least. Nevertheless they should start winning now to get a bit out of the trouble and maybe bring some self confidence back on their side. Despite all bad things Coach Verbeek is very pleased about the trainings camp and work there and he is very happy with all. They had a few friendlies, won all but it is a good sign? In summer they won also almost all and in League they were not able. Maybe the luck has changed now and they are in a better position as last year where they hit bar and post so often. All hope that this shots are all goals now.

1899 Hoffenheim is not out of trouble and they need every point too. But I think the squad for this are there although most of them are very young but they need this experience to get better and better. A lot of duels for the open positions in Hoffenheim and Gisdol can choose from almost all. This brings him in a very good position as well but he must hope that he does the right decisions. Open is if Volland and Elyounoussi are able to be at 100% after their light injuries.