1.FC Nürnberg - Union Berlin

Both teams were expected in the upper half but only Union did the job with 14 Points so far while Nürnberg disappointed a lot this Season. They celebrated their first win last weekend what is far away from good and with only 5 Points they are on Place 16 and in danger right now. They need to bring all their power on the pitch to get out of the trouble as soon as possible otherwise it would be a very tough Season for them.

To begin with 2 draws and a lucky advance in Cup they were not really on track but the upcoming 4 matches were all lost what made the situation in Nürnberg very explosive. The last match was not well too as they started with a missed penalty, fall behind but managed to get the win in the end what was very important for Coach Schwartz.

For Union it was different, they had problems to begin with getting only 2 draws but were able to get back on track with 4 wins in a row. This latest victories let them get a lot of self confidence and they are coming to Nürnberg with a lot of motivation and believe in their strength that they can walk on and end up an excellent September month.

It is not far away that Coach Schwartz is still in need for positive results according to the situation there. They started the positive trend last weekend but they have to continue this way otherwise it would be very hard for him to work without any pressure there. According to the news are not many changes expected that he wants to count on the same lineup as in Bielefeld but with Leipold they have one guy doubtful. If he can play he is the man maybe on the back wing while Sepsi showed a good performance after he came in and is a real option too. Leipold’s normal position is the offensive wing but there plays Burgstaller right now after Schwartz change the system to 4-1-3-1 with Matavz as lone striker. Burgstaller showed a real uptrend what can be key for the team as he can lead the other guys with his excellent fighting spirit. Not available are important key players like keeper Schäfer, defender Margreitter, midfied player Alushi and Erras.

After the good run from Union Coach Keller has not reasons to changes his successful team but he has a lot of good options in hand as well what let him think about. This is may to hold the quality high in training and also to show the players that they are all needed. Top striker Quaner was out with muscle problems against St. Pauli what allow Hosnier to start and he scored the leading goal what was self advertising of course but Quaner maybe returns this evening. In this case Coach Keller has to decide between his two top strikers whom he let start. On the left offensive wing Redondo could convince in recent matches what put him in a great position while new signing Hedlung must wait for his chance on this position. He is on bench again despite his fitness has improved and should be at 100% now.

Atletico Madrid - Bayern München

Time for revenge? After the 0-1 last CL Season in Vicente Calderon Bayern Munich want to do better this time. According to their squad they can count on players which were not available last Season like Ribery and Robben but what players Ancelotti field is more as open as he has a lot to choose from.

To begin of the CL Season Atletico had a lot of problems with PSV Eindhoven but won in the end and this is what only count anyway. In LaLiga they are unbeaten so far and showed that their form is excellent when they got a 1-1 draw in Barcelona. The last match was very close but they could win 1-0 to LaCoruna and hold the contact to the top places. But according to news they got two players injured in this encounter what makes Coach Simeone not very happy. Both defender Gimenez and midfield player Fernandez are injured now and they miss the match with Bayern today. But both replacements played already last Season against Bayern as they had to replace some players as well. Savic in defence had an excellent day there and also Saul Niguez who scored the winning goal. He will start beside Gabi in central midfield again. The most important player Griezman is ready to play and he scored already 5 times this Season additional he got a great partner in attack with Gameiro (came from FC Sevilla) who scored also 2 goals so far. Both are working excellent together and can make a lot of trouble for Bayern’s defense.

After the late win in Hamburg Bayern got some good news on Monday because defender Hummels stands on the pitch and could train after he must left the field injured on Saturday. This means that all the top guns in defensive are ready but this can be a problem for Ancelotti as he has 3 great defenders for 2 places. One of the three Boateng, Hummels and Martinez sit on bench. It can be that Boateng is the one after his injury as he is not at 100% while Martinez is in great form and can not be out of the starting lineup. The wings are field with inform Ribery who was the difference in Hamburg game after he came in and on the other side with Müller. Robben is planned as joker then what should be a good choice at the end of the game. In central midfield they have a lot of players ready like Alonso, Thiago, Kimmich and Vidal. One of the 4 named guys must on bench. It is very open whom Ancelotti sit on bench as all are in good shape and have a lot of potential to help the team.

Borussia Dortmund - Real Madrid

This is the absolutely top match in Group F when Borussia Dortmund hosts Real Madrid in CL this evening. Real has not the best remembrance of Borussia as they lost the last meeting there. Overall they are not so successful if they have to play on German ground anyway.

It looks like that Dortmund is more prepared and competitive in all competitions this Season, also they are unbeaten 2016 at home what is a very good statement anyway. After the goal festivals against Legia, Darmstadt and Wolfsburg they had a bit problems with newcomer Freiburg but won in the end easy and deserved 3-1. This was exactly the match Tuchel wants to have as most of the crowd around the club are high flying with they expectations on them. This was absolutely key to get back on earth for some of them and was maybe a little bit of warning before the big match. In all latest games Coach Tuchel rotated a lot and it was not really to see which player are absolutely key in his system as they have 21 even players this Season in squad. This gives him a lot of options and the opponents do not know what they have to expect additional. With Real is the biggest opponent in town and of course all players are really hot to start but it will be very interesting to see what players impressed Tuchel in the last weeks that he gives them the possibility to start. Some doubt are behind Ramos, Aubameyang and Bartra according to the latest news but against Real Madrid they do all to start. A option can be Schürrle after his injury as he is back in team training and should be in the squad today. After the good start in CL against Legia they want to get something against Real of course too. They can count on their home strength and on the great atmosphere in Signal Iduna Park as well.

The defending Champion Real Madrid had a hard start into the CL league Season with a late win to Sporting at home. They had a lot of problems in this match and it looked more that Sporting win this one but with two late goals they turned the match in their way although it was not very deserved. After this match Real had a lot of problems in league too and could only get 2 draws against Villareal and Las Palmas. They are not in the form they had to the end of last Season. This is maybe according to the injury of some important players but nevertheless they did not lose a single game this Season anyway. Therefore we are having to much expectations on the team maybe. But if they want to get something in Dortmund where they never could win, they have to improve their performance from last matches. According to the last result in Dortmund they should be warned anway (3-2-0). To begin they managed two draws but the last three matches are all lost. Not available for Coach Zidane are Marcelo, Casemiro and maybe Pepe who face a knee injury.

1.Bundesliga Round 5 - Infos

FSV Mainz 05 - Bayer Leverkusen

- Both teams meet each other 20 times in BL and it is even with 8-4-8.
- If Bayer Leverkusen takes the lead in this match, then they are almost set for the win (10x = 8 wins).
- Since Martin Schmidt is on the sideline Mainz is without a win in 5 home games the first time now.
- The last time this happened was under Coach Tuchel where they had the same 5 matches run.
- The win in 6th game was against Bayer Leverkusen 1-0, maybe a good sign for today.
- Leverkusen can concede the 3th defeat in a row on the road was is a negative high for them.



Bor. M'Gladbach - FC Ingolstadt 04

- Both meet each other only last Season and Gladbach could not win and score a single goal (0-0 0-1)
- Ingolstadt was able to end up the run from Schubert who was on a 6 games winning streak.
- This happened with a 0-0 what was really deserved because Ingolstadt was very aggressiv.
- The last 9 home games were all won from Gladbach, longest run 1987 with 11 BL matches.
- Since Schubert is on the sideline Gladbach lost only 1 home game to Dortmund 1-3.
- In their last 17 home games they could collect 46 Points out what is even with giant Bayern.
- FCI is winless since 9 BL games (0-2-7) what is a new record in their club history now.
- They conceded in all these games at least 1 goal what would be not surprise against this offense today.
- The last win was celebrated also against Gladbach with 1-0 but at home.



Hamburger SV - Bayern München

- Bayern won 61 from 102 BL games with Hamburg and scored 231 goals in these - BL record !!!
- The last win from Hamburg against Bayern was 2009 with 1-0, exactly 7 years ago.
- Who was the Coach for Hamburg? Do know them anyone? Of course Bruno Labbadia.
- With the 4th win against Hertha Bayern has a new BL start record in history. 12 Points +13 goals.
- Bayern is very hard to beat at "Wiesn Time", the last club who was able to get a Point - HSV.
- Since this happened won Bayern all his 11 BL games to this time.
- Hamburg was the club with the lowest outcome of Points in 2016 with only 20 !!!
- HSV was only able to get two more Points as Stuttgart but they are already in 2.BL (4 games less).



Werder Bremen - VfL Wolfsburg

- Bremen lost 6 of the last 7 matches to Wolfsburg but the most important one was won last Season.
- With 3-2 at home they put them in a good position in relegation battle what was almost key for them.
- If Bremen and Wolfsburg meet each other on Saturday evening, 4 times VfL won.
- In BL history lost Bremen the first time all 4 matches to begin of a Season.
- Also the 14 goals against them was a new high for them.
- VfL did not conceded since 282 minutes on the road, in the last 3 without conceding.
- Both home matches were lost from Bremen despite a 1-0 half time lead with 1-2.
- It is also new that Bremen lose home games to begin of the Season, never happened before.

Borussia Dortmund - SC Freiburg

After 17 goals in the last 3 games Borussia Dortmund is aiming for the next goal festival. They are absolutely inform at the moment and whoever stands on the pitch for them all is well balanced and they work excellent together. It can be the next big show from BvB as the opponent from Freiburg looked a bit shake in the defensive work above all the young defensive central back was not always ahead of the action and this can be a real problem against fast playing Borussia, of course. Although they won to HSV 1-0 it was lucky because they allowed too much and Dortmund is using this opportunities all.

With 6-0 against Legia in CL, 6-0 against Darmstadt at home and 5-1 in Wolfsburg where they gave a real statement of their strength this Season. Above all Guerreiro and Dembele showed a lot of their potential and were absolutely ahead of all actions. Both youngsters are already well integrated and this is maybe key that they can deliver such performances every week.  Almost all have really fun to play in this actual good performing team. The only blow for Dortmund so far is that defending chief Barta got injured against Wolfsburg and should be out for this game, if he is fit he will be rested anyway due to the upcoming CL match against Real Madrid next week. With Ginter they have a good replacement for him and he made his job if he was needed so far. Therefore no quality lose for them as they have 21 even players this Season what is the next step for BvB this Season. Tuchel mentioned already that Götze, Aubameyang and Castro for Pulisic are sure in the starting lineup what looks like he wants to field almost his strongest lineup against promoted Freiburg. In central midfield can Rode play instead of Weigl but nothing special anyway. The history against Freiburg is very positive and they won the last 10 matches all while scoring always 3 or more in the last 5 home games against SCF.

With 6 Points out of 4 matches was Freiburg very successful to begin of the Season above all as newcomer. The only problem both victories were celebrated at home, on the road they were not able to get something so far. Coach Streich is not thinking to changes much against such a powerful playing team like Dortmund at the moment. He counts on the same defensive lineup as against Hamburg and field only a 4 men defensive line instead of 5. In this case Höfler plays again in central back while Abrashi takes the central midfield position from Höfler. Both did his job against Hamburg so why should I change said Streich. He believe in his eleven from last game what allow Petersen no hopes to move into the team because he needs physical strong players who run and work a lot against fast playing BvB. He is therefore only an option at the end of the match maybe. For Stenzel it is a special match as he is on loan from Dortmund and can make some self advertising here with a good performance what can be difficult if he must play against Guerreiro.

Bayern München - Hertha BSC Berlin

Top match of Round 4 take place in Munich when Bayern hosts Hertha BSC on Wednesday evening. Both teams won all their 3 matches so far and stand on top of the table, therefore one team lose the first Points, of course. In the past 31 matches in Munich Hertha was not much successful because they won only 2 of these games. The last 10 were all lost anyway and they could score only 4 goals in these matches what makes it a big task for them although they have nothing to lose and played very stable in the first 3 matches what can maybe let them hope for more this time.

The last home game was not the best from Bayern and they were a bit lucky as well although the better class has decide the match in the end. Without some important players they had to play against Ingolstadt what was seen in their style of play and also the space they gave Ingolstadt for counter attacks. In this match they have to come from behind but they managed this job above all keeper Neuer saved them many times. He was the best player on the pitch for Bayern where new signing Sanches is far away right now. He had again a lot of problems in midfield and need some time to know all processes better.  After 5 matches without conceding a goal in all competitions Bayern conceded first time this Season. According to news can there be some changes from Ancelotti because some of the ill players are back and can move into the starting eleven again.

With Lahm, Alaba and Hummels they have still ill players which are not 100% ready but should be on bench (Coach Ancelotti said in an interview that he decides if he put one or two of them in the starting lineup or not), only Müller returns for sure, also Boateng can give his debut as starter. In this case the following changes are possible, Boateng comes in for central back, Kimmich moves forward and takes Sanches position according to his weak performance against FCI while Müller plays on the wing for Coman who had also a bad day lately. In attack all hopes are on Lewandowski of course.

Big surprise in Berlin as they could win all their matches in BL what makes the best start in their BL history possible. They won the last two games with 2-0 what allow them to travel with a lot of self confidence to Munich. Keeper Jarstein concedes only 1 goals, same like Neuer and he hopes that his defensive line can hold the pressure stand for yet another surprise. But it is not all well in Berlin above all after the big injury from one of their key players Darida who got injured against Schalke and is out for weeks now. This missing hurts Coach Dardai a lot, was he the man with the most distance he run every game. A real worker what is needed in team which both replacement candidates are not like. With Stocker and Kalou Coach Dardai is thinking about but they are really different to Darida. In this case this miss can be a key puzzle for Hertha BSC. All the other positions remain the same like last game as with Brooks (defender) they have one guy who is not ready yet.

VfL Wolfsburg - Borussia Dortmund

Great match between two good teams expected this evening. Dortmund coming from two excellent wins (both 6-0) to Wolfsburg where they could score 12 goals in 3 days. It looks like that they have found the offensive power after having some problems to begin of the Season. Also it is not important which players stands on the pitch as the squad is big and well balanced this Season what can be key in the upcoming weeks. With Wolfsburg they face one of the three teams which could keep a clean sheet in all 3 BL matches so far. The offensive power is still not there in Wolfsburg but they are working on it and want to hurt Dortmund, of course.

Although both central defenders Dante and Naldo left the club they have found their form in defense very early. Maybe key is that Bruma has a lot of experience and plays really great so far, if beside Knoche or Wollscheid he is head of the defensive line and organize very well. Also back wing Rodriguez who wants to leave the club as well has found back to his normal form and gave the team more stability and also options for the offensive play with his crosses into the box. Despite the good defensive play, the offensive has still to improve above all national player Gomez wasted a lot against 1899 last Saturday. He said that he still need some time but he feels on a good way and sooner or later he will score and help the team.  Nevertheless with 5 Points they started well although they scored only in first game but was close in last anyway. Against Cologne they had a weaker performance and did hard at home. Maybe it is better if they can play away from home when they get more space but this will be there against Dortmund at home anyway too. Both missed players Gustavo and Didavi are back and ready for Dortmund. This gives Hecking additional options, if he changes maybe Arnold and Caligiuri must back on bench.

After the good CL match in Warschau 6-0 rotated Tuchel in his starting lineup a lot. Nevertheless the quality was there again and they overcome Darmstadt very easy 6-0 again. Now he has to think about the starting lineup again and it is not sure with what eleven he wants to play against Wolfsburg. With Pulisic and Castro he had two players with excellent performance, who both scored as well. If both sit on bench or can start is open. The players who was only on bench like Aubameyang, Rode and Götze are all expected in starting lineup this time. Aubameyang replace Ramos in attack of course, Rode can take the part from Weigl in central midfield while Götze can be an option for the middle or wing. Schmelzer got slight injured against Darmstadt and can be rested here while Guerreiro plays at left back wing this time. Reus and Bender are still out and no option, Schürrle is close to come back but he is only on bench then after his knee injury anyway. Both matches last Season could Dortmund decide for them and they hope to continue this run.

VfB Stuttgart - Eintracht Braunschweig

Heads up, who will win?

Wow what a great start into the Season from Braunschweig with 5 wins in a row. No one has expect this but they are on top and it would be hard to get them away from there in the next weeks. Too good and stable they are at the moment what makes it very difficult to beat them right now. Of course Stuttgart wants to be the first team to get something against the leader but they have to improve their home performance big.

I wrote already a lot on the weekend about VfB and I do not want to repeat all but some sentences should be mentioned. Start was average with some luck and they are on an up and downtrend right now. After Coach Luhukay left the club due to some problems with Manager Schindelsmeiser the situation is going to be better for some players above all Maxim and Takuma Asano who both were not the favorites for Coach Luhukay but their skills are needed if Stuttgart want to be successful. It was seen that both improved the play a lot in Kaiserslautern and they will also in the future. Interim Coach Janßen celebrated an important win with VfB in Kaiserslautern and let the hope come back to Stuttgart that they are able to get the promotion job done.

Eintracht from Braunschweig started incredible good with 5 wins in the league, the only light shock was the Cup knock out against Würzburger Kickers after extra time. Nevertheless they build up a very good and strong squad for this Season and the problems from last Seasons are gone, it looks like that they are a real competitor for promotion this Season. The last time they started with 5 wins was 2012/13 and in the end they were promoted what they would subscribe of course now.

After the win Janßen will not changes much as they have done 4 changes before the game against FCK and it was successful what he did. It may can be his last two games on the sideline as head coach as next week they want to present the new head coach in Stuttgart. Although some names are named but nothing official right now. The team has to concentrate them on the game anyway and see what happened. The second half was much better in Kaiserslautern what let some think about a system change from 4-4-2 to 4-2-3-1 with Maxim behind lone striker Terodde. Also Großkreutz can start on right back wing while inform Asano play on the left back wing. Both should be push a lot over the wings and put some pressure on Eintracht’s defense.

It is not expected that Coach Lieberknecht change his successful team although he had done it before the game to Sandhausen and it was a big surprise but afterwards it was a great idea from him because with Nyman he let an inform player start and this guy reward the Coach with the leading goal. The other guy was rested Khelifi who was only on bench against Aue but started this time. Hernandez and Biada rotated out of the lineup for both mentioned above and sit on bench. It can change this time again, you never know what Lieberknecht plans as he has a very good squad available with a lot of options this Season. This make them more and more unpredictable for the opponents what is a big advantage for them. This can lead in a very good and successful Season anyway. 

1.Bundesliga Sunday matches

The last two games of Round 3 includes 2 European League starters with Mainz and Schalke, Hertha was a candidate as well but did not manage the qualification against Bröndby. Both home teams are rested well and could prepare for the encounter while the other two teams played on Thursday. Mainz at home what should not be a big problem at all while Schalke stayed in Nice and travelled directly to Berlin on Saturday. If this can be a too big problem we will see but S04 is without a Point in the league and they are very hot after winning the game in Nice to get the Season started now.

We saw a lot of home wins in the 7 matches of Round 3 and also a lot of goals too. This means that these two matches can produce less goals and also the away teams can earn something on this sunday. Overall I favor the under and also the away side in both but lets take a quick look on some stats too.


FC Augsburg - FSV Mainz 05

- FCA could win only 1 time in 8 attempts to Mainz (1-2-5).
- The only win they could celebrate on Matchday 11 2013/14 2-1 at home.
- Since 5 matches is Mainz unbeaten against FCA (4-1-0).
- Only against Freiburg Mainz has a better run as against FCA right now.
- But Mainz could win only 1 of the last 8 BL matches (3-1 to Stuttgart / Round 33 - 15/16).
- In this period they played 4 times draw and lost 3 matches.
- After the first win Coach Schuster field the same lineup as in Bremen, only Caiuby is out injured.
- For him one of the new signed players Usami or Schmid can get a chance today.
- FCA at home still goalless, but they are doing very hard to score anyway.



Hertha BSC Berlin - FC Schalke 04

- The last duel won Hertha 2-0 although S04 was unbeaten in 14 before (12-2-0).
- Hertha started with 2 wins in a row into the Season what is a new club record for them.
- Never before they could start with 2 wins in a row, if they won the first match, they failed in 2nd.
- This is the 9. time that Schalke started with two defeats in a row in a new Season.
- Since 1988 it happened the 2nd time, first time was 2010/11 under Coach Magath - 4 defeats in a row.
- Schalke could not score in their 2 BL matches so far but conceded already 3.
- Hertha with an excellent start but also with some luck against Freiburg, winning goal 95. minute.
- Some rotations is possible for the starting lineup from S04 after the EL game in Nice.
- Hertha can count on the same lineup as in Ingolstadt, only defender Brooks is doubtful.

Arminia Bielefeld - Hannover 96

An interesting match between these two clubs, Bielefeld still winless this Season is suffering for the first win while Hannover has to look that they get not too much in trouble after getting only 1 Point from the last two matches what makes it more difficult in promotion battle if this run continues.
The start was average with 0-0 to KSC, then 0-1 in Munich to 1860 and a lucky Cup win against lower division team from Essen. Ok, they mean that they on a good way but after taking the lead 3-1 against Union at home they are too regardless and played only 4-4 in the end. The last game was close but they lost due to a late goal 1-2 what was really deserved against St. Pauli.
It was almost a rocket start for Hannover with 4-0 to FCK, 3-1 to Fürth and the Cup 3-2 after extra time against lower division team from Offenbach. All thinking they are on the right way but against Bochum 1-1 it was a light downtrend and after the national break 0-2 to Dresden at home was the worst case now. They have to be much more positive on the pitch and invest more as in the last games otherwise it is going to be a hard Season for them without reaching the goal promotion.

A lot of trouble and problems after the weak performance in the last game what makes Coach Rehm not very happy and he is thinking to changes his starting lineup on a few positions today. A lot of players are not in their best form and this is needed if a smaller club want to play a secure Season. The first change can be Börner who is back from injury again what puts him in a good position to replace Cacutalua in central back who had a bad day in Hamburg. Also both offensive wings Hemlein and Nöthe disappointed a lot, therefore some rotation or changes are possible on this positions as well. Tom Schütz can take the defensive part what makes Görlitz free for one of the offensive wings. Also youngsters Staude and Mak are candidates for the offensive wings. In attack can get Putaro a chance who can replace Ulm there. Up front with captain Klos should be clear.

Despite the harsh 0-2 home defeat to Dresden Coach Stendel will not change all on his system or lineup but some he has to changes anyway. Above all leader Sane is not available due to the red card he received in the end of the Dresden game. It is a big blow for Hannover here but they have to handle this now and with Standberg who starts first time today is a good replacement there. The next bad news was that Harnik got injured in training and is not ready for today's game. This means that Stendel has to change one more time. The options can be that Karaman replace him on the position he played or Füllkrug plays on the wing while Sobiech move in the middle as box player. The other positions should remain unchanged as mentioned above.

1.Bundesliga Infos to the matches

Bayern München - FC Ingolstadt 04

- Bayern won all the 3 meetings against FCI. But the last two was close with 2-0 and 2-1.
- FCB won 17 of their last 19 BL matches with 59-8 goals.
- Only Mainz could win in Munich in this period with 2-1 (19-1-1).
- Bayern miss some players due to illness or flu today. But the squad is strong enough.
- At "Wieso Time" Bayern never lost a game in the past, they are very strong to this special time.



Borussia Dortmund - SV Darmstadt 98

- Dortmund plays Darmstadt 7 times so far and SVD could win only 1 (4-2-1).
- The last meeting in Dortmund was an incredible one for SVD with 2-2 on Round 7.
- Hero of this game was captain Sulu who scored the equalizer in the 90. minute.
- BvB won 19 of their last 22 matches including last Season (19-3-0).
- The only team who could win in Dortmund was Bayern 17 month ago with 1-0 on 1. April 2015.



Eintracht Frankfurt - Bayer Leverkusen

- Bayer could win both meetings last Season with 3-1 and 3-0.
- They meet each other 62 times already (22-13-27).
- This match is set for goals, never in all the games they played 0-0.
- The average of the matches against each other is 3,1 goals, what let us hope for some spectacle.
- Bayer won 9 of their last 11 BL matches, what is a good run. They lost twice only.
- But these were the last two road games to Gladbach 1-2 and 1-2



1899 Hoffenheim - VfL Wolfsburg

- This match has a special goal guarantee because 16 matches produce 62 goals between these teams.
- The average is almost 4 (3,88) and let hope for some today, above all 1899 is on fire anyway.
- This is the encounter that is set for goals and only 2 meetings have more in BL history at the moment.
- The stats are positive for Wolfsburg as they are a big ahead of 1899 with 9-3-5.
- In the last 7 home games between both there were 5 home wins and 2 draws.
- The last away win was 2012 when Wolfsburg could win in Sinsheim 3-1.

1.FC Kaiserslautern - VfB Stuttgart

After not many weeks, Luhukay left already.

This encounter is a very important one for both. Above all FCK has not won this Season so far and only 2 Points on their side, this means if they continue this run they are involved in relegation battle early in the Season. On the other side relegated VfB has a lot of problems and they could only collect 6 of 12 possible Points so far. They are far away what they have expected and also what most of the experts has expected too.
Stuttgart was lucky to begin against St. Pauli if they could turn the match around after fall behind 0-1, next one in Düsseldorf was lost 0-1, while Cup 3-0 won to Homburg and also in Sandhausen 2-1 let them hope and dream for more but after they failed against Heidenheim 1-2 at home it looks like that it is not the same as before and a lot of trouble has arrived already.
The opener for FCK was good against Hannover but only the first 20-30 minutes then they lost the game very easy 0-4 and showed a lot of weakness above all in defensive. The next two matches to Würzburg 1-1 and Fortuna 0-0 was a little uptrend but the Cup knock out against lower division team from Halle was a big blow in their face. Also the not expected 0-2 defeat in Sandhausen what brought the team under Coach Korkut under huge pressure for the upcoming matches.

Although no one reach the normal form against Sandhausen, expect captain Halfar Coach Korkut can not changes much as he has not many available for this game today. They have with Przybylko, Moritz both injured and new signings Mudjza, Ewerton and Kerk 5 possible starters out. Also first keeper Weis is out due to his red card last weekend. This means that they have to field youngster Pollersbeck who give his debut for the first team today. The players who was not available in Sandhausen already they have only hope for Zoua that he can return after back problems, the others are all out. But he came late and was not in best shape anyway, therefore not an increase for the team.

It is the first match after Coach Luhukay said that he wants to leave VfB Stuttgart after some problems with the Club and also Manager Schindelsmeiser. Interim Coach Janßen has a lot to do and prepare the team for the important match. He may changes some of the positions as the options are there in the squad. A lot of players are looking to get into the starting eleven and they are much more motivated as under Luhukay because they see a new chance like Pavard, Mane and Asano. But also Großkreutz, Hosogai and Grgic are ready after their injuries and should be a real option for Janßen here. The same it was for Maxim who was not the favorite from Luhukay but he has a lot of potential to help Stuttgart out of the bad period now. Nevertheless Stuttgart has the problems with his former Coach but the injury list is less and they can get something here, of course.

Bayern München - FK Rostov

This is the start of the CL 2016/17 and also the weeks with a lot of matches for Bayern Munich. They are playing 6 matches in the upcoming 19 days what is a hard time for them. But they have the squad and they can rotate what smaller clubs not can as they have almost 22 even players. Coach Ancelotti said already that he wants to rotate a lot and give players a rest if they need it. He can be happy because the injury list is getting smaller after Robben and Boateng returns into team training this week but they are no option for today’s game but in the next weeks. With Kimmich he has one guy in back hand who is very hot after scoring two goals in the last two matches for Germany against Norway and on Friday for Bayern. He starts as Ancelotti mentioned already what means Alonso sit on bench and get a rest. He can play beside Vidal in central midfield who replace Sanches who had some problems against Schalke with a lot of mistakes, even not his best day there. Also attacker Müller can get some rest but it is his birth today therefore he will start and other guys like Ribery, Lahm and so on can be rested while full fit Costa can get a chance on the wing against deep defending Rostov. Maybe some speed is needed on the wings to beat the defensive minded opponent. Nevertheless Bayern was always able to find a way to win the first match in CL above all at home in recent years. 

They are playing first time against Rostov but they have a very good record against Russian teams, lost only 2 of 18 duels (10-6-2). The last 4 matches were won from Bayern, all against ZSKA Moskau. Coach Ancelotti played already with Juventus against them and he could win both 4-0 and 5-1. If Bayern win this game they can claim the next record for them. With 12 victories in CL in row at home (even with ManU in this category) they can take the pole position alone with the 13. win today.  

FK Rostov starts the first time in CL and they are an absolutely newcomer in this competition. With coming in as second last Season they have to qualify for the CL what they did with a lot of emotions. They could beat RSC Anderlecht in third qualification Round and in the play offs to CL they overcome Ajax Amsterdam with 1-1 and 4-1. They showed a great style of play against Ajax but in the past weeks they are only average in the league and could not continue their good run and play from last Season. Although they could win the game at the weekend they are absolutely weak on the road where they won nothing so far. This means a big duty for them this evening anyway. The players are almost all unknown maybe one player make some noise with his two two goals against Ajax. A 21 years old irani Azmoun can maybe make some trouble for Bayern Munich’s defensive guys. The preferred system from Rostov is 3-5-2 but in Munich they can play much more defensive minded with maybe 5-3-2. Of course they will count on counter attacks and their youngster up front but overall it is a big different in class and style of play of both. They can only hope that Bayern Munich has not the best day.

1.FC Nürnberg - 1860 München

Last Seasons successful team from Nürnberg maybe has lost their team spirit and Coach Schwartz stands under huge pressure already. After drawing twice to begin to Dresden 1-1 and Heidenheim where they lead in both but could not finish it. In Cup it was more as always against a lower division team and FCN did hard but advanced after penalty shot out. But after the Cup game they lost deserved 1-6 in Braunschweig although they took the lead again but was absolutely chanceless against the leader of the league. It was a big sign for the Team, Coach and Fans. They have to find them new again and start winning otherwise the situation is going to be worse in Nürnberg.

Struggling 1860 invested a lot into the squad and Coach Runjaic has to build up a new team. This should be not so easy as most of the players came late but nevertheless they lost only the opener 0-1 to Fürth. The other matches are all in their favor with 1-0 to Bielefeld, 2-1 to KSC in Cup and 0-0 to KSC again. This means they are unbeaten in 3 right now and they are working on it to expand this run. From game to game the team work well together and they have much more quality as last Season above all in offense. 

In the break Nürnberg played a test friendly against BL team Ingolstadt what they won 2-1. This was very important because the players get some self confidence and motivation back, also new signing Matavz and Parker got some match praxis what was important for the upcoming matches. Coach Schwartz plans with both in the starting lineup for this encounter anyway. Both came from Augsburg on loan and should help the team immediately. Parker can play on the wing for Salli who disappointed huge against Braunschweig while Matavz can play in attack beside Burgstaller in a 4-4-2 system instead the last practiced 4-2-3-1. A big problem is the absent from key defender Margreitter. He was already out in Braunschweig and the outcome was a disaster. He miss again and with Hovland replace him a guy who had not the best day against Eintracht. But Schwartz trust him more as youngster Mühl who is also and option there. In goal they must replace veteran Schäfer because of knee problems. This puts Kirschbaum into the starting eleven again but every time in the past he could not take advantage of this situation.

According to the last good result is the same starting eleven expected as in the last 2 matches. Although 1860 was in good shape Coach Runjaic was not so unhappy for a break as he could work with his team on some things and also to integrate the new guys in the team better. Some of the new guys like Ribamar and Stojkovic are still not ready also long term injured Sukalo but sooner or later they can be options and put some pressure on the guys who has a slight advantage at the moment. It looks like that the club has done their home work for this Season and they are much stronger and better prepared as last Season or two ago. With a 4-1-4-1 system with only Liendl in central midfield they are very compact and it is working anyway. A lite shock was to begin of the week for Coach Runjaic that key player Aigner could not train due to knee problems but he recovered fast and is ready for the match today what is very important for 1860.

Bayer Leverkusen - Hamburger SV

After last Seasons good result Bayer is hoping for more this Season. They are talking to put some pressure on the first two teams from last Season above all they can count on all their key players this Season again and additional could strengthen the squad. With all this good news a lot of pressure is on Coach Schmitt and his team. The pressure was given from the Coach as well as he said in an interview why they should not win the league title this Season. Therefore it was a step back for them after losing the first game to Gladbach. Of course they made a good game but in some periods of the match they produce important mistakes with allowed Gladbach to score twice. In the end they can be pleased with the performance but not with the result. 

With Dragovic they signed a new defender short before the transfer window closed. He can be a good option in the upcoming weeks when the matches are getting more and more. For this game he may sit on bench as with Tah and Toprak they have a good defender duo and they knowing each other better and harmonize better anyway. But the problems are not in defensive right now, they are more in offensive as 3 important guys are out. Attacker are needed immediately because Kießling, Chicarito and Volland are all out. First one with back problems while the other two guys has broken hands. Maybe the hopes are on Pohjanpalo who scored immediately after he came in against Gladbach. But more hopes they have in Calhanoglu and Mehmedi who both had good matches with their national teams and should be back with a lot self condidence.

In central midfield Schmitt can choose from 3 for 2 places. Baumgartlinger, Kampl and Aranguiz he has a lot of good players but on whom he counts is not out yet. Maybe a very late decision and feeling from him.

Almost before every Season Hamburg has a lot of hopes but the truth is different. Investor Kühne gave a lot of Mios that they can invest in the squad again after having a lot of financial problems anyway. They bought some players to strength the team but the outcome was not like expected so far. Ok, they took the lead against Ingolstadt but they were not able to bring this to a good end. In the end they conceded a curious goal and all their good mood was gone. It looks like same as last Season, at home with late goals and also convincing not much. Coach Labbadia and his team has a lot of work to do if they want to make the next step. Investor Kühne is expecting a lot from them after his big investment again.

With the next match ahead in Leverkusen they have a big nut to crack because all the last 4 matches were lost in BayArena. Therefore not the best sign for them although they have nothing to lose there and Leverkusen without a Point so far has of course more pressure. Maybe Labbadia can find a way to crack the power from Bayer and surprise here. According to news are almost all players available for this encounter what allow Labbadia to think about some positions. Only Jung is out injured, Ekdal is back in team training and in the squad anyway. In central back he may change, Spahic for Cleber. Also in offensive some options are possible.

VfB Stuttgart - FC Heidenheim

It was not as expected because Stuttgart had a lot of problems in their opener against St. Pauli and some luck to win 2-1 in the end after they have come from behind. Second match was almost the same, they did really hard and lost against a big fighting team from Düsseldorf. But nevertheless Coach Luhukay found the right mix and balance what was key for the following 2 victories. First one in Cup against lower division team FC Homburg 3-0 and one week later in Sandhausen 2-1. Both wins are deserved but in the end of the 90 minutes they had a bit of luck above all against SV Sandhausen.

Their opponent Heidenheim started well and won to Aue 1-0 but could not convince much in this game, better was the second match in Nürnberg 1-1 where was much more possible but they missed too much. In Cup it was had work against a lower division team from Wattenscheid 2-1 what continues in league against Würzburg 1-2. The form is not there right now but they had 1-2 weeks to prepare more for the Season now.

At the end of the transfer period was Stuttgart able to sign some more players to bring more deepness in their squad and also some fighting spirit for the positions. With Pavard, Mane and Asano they finished their transfer activities. All three guys started with training on Wednesday and should not be in the starting lineup immediately. They are more expected to sit on bench first and maybe get some minutes in the end of the match. Also Baumgartl, Hosogai and Ristl are no option for the squad and train individual. Coach Luhukay mentioned that Großkreutz is back from injury and an option for the squad against Heidenheim. All the others are the same like to begin. It is the same lineup expected which managed the last two wins what means Maxim sit on bench again. Because youngster Özcan is on fire with 1 goal and 3 assists in 2 games. Therefore no surprises expected from Coach Luhukay.

After having some problems in cup and league Heidenheim played some test friendlies to get some self confidence back. Against lower division teams like Dorfmerkingen 3-0 and Jahn Regensburg 2-1 they won both tests and the players got a lot of self confidence back. Above all Halloran and Finne who scored twice. Coach Schmidt was very pleased with this good matches and he hopes that they can continue the better way now. Both Scorer has some hope to move into the starting lineup now but it would be very tough as well because against Regensburg missed they some players due to illness. All these guys are back and starts of course what let them sit on the bench again anyway. Only Finne can remain in the starting lineup although he was very weak against Würzburg. Nevertheless Coach Schmidt has a lot to choose and all positions are double digit therefore he can plan his starting lineup whatever he needs against each opponent. Some youngsters make a lot of noise and put some pressure on the guys in starting eleven, sooner or later they get a chance.