Karlsruher SC - FC Heidenheim

This is an "Baden-Württemberg" Derby where both teams are not far from each other. This derby is not a traditional one as it is not such old with only 5 matches played between these two clubs according to their different club history. KSC could win 2 of these matches while Heidenheim is winless but was able to draw 3 times. Both teams are neighbors in table and both are almost safe. The team from KSC was expecting much more after the winter break but it was not able to close the gap to the top, no they lost more. On the other side Heidenheim is very proud that they play such a good Season and can come to Karlsruhe very relaxed after successful weeks lately.

KSC won 1-0 last weekend but this was not enough to close the gap to the top teams according to their weak outcome with only 9 Points from 6 matches. The main fact that they can not climb up in table was the weak home outcome with only 3 draws against FSV Frankfurt, Braunschweig and Paderborn. They are winless since Round 18 at home but the motivation is not the same as they play for nothing at the moment and stand only in the midfield of the table. It is sure that Kauczinski leaves the club at the end of the Season and his replacement signed a contract this week. They are counting on Thomas Oral who is head coach at FSV Frankfurt at the moment but comes to the next Season.
Before the game against Düsseldorf Kauczinski changed his team 3 times but this time he may count on the same lineup as in last game where they could convince and win anyway. The only problem for them is Sallihi who is doubtful for the game and if he can not start the replacements are Nazarov or Gouaida while quick midfield player Torres miss again. Torres is with 4 goals and 6 assist on of the best offensive player in team from KSC. No one of the team mates has more assists and only Diamantakos scored more with 5.

After winning two times at home in a row after having a very long run without a win they are back on track there. On the road they were unbeaten in 7 of their last 8 games. Only the last game in Leipzig they lost with 1-3 because of only of the huge offensive power form RBL. They are aiming to start a new streak on the road now. According to lastest news and also to the last game there are no changes expected because of the good game and win against St. Pauli 2-0. They have only one guy out injured anyway therefore Coach Schmidt can choose from a lot but he count on a good balanced eleven again. Some options are there with Theuerkauf instead of Titsch-Rivero in midfield or in attack where Morabit and Thomalla harmonized very well against St. Pauli. But also Finne made some self advertising with his goal after he came in. In attack is also Leipertz an option but he can play also on the wing as well. Leipertz (8 goals / 7 assists) and Schnatterer (5 goals / 6 assists) are the most dangerous players from Heidenheim. Both are able to decide a match for them but also Morabit is with his 4 goals an important factor in offensive.

This match can be a very close one but according to the big problems form KSC if they play at home and they do not like to control the game or make the game. They prefer the same style as Heidenheim and this is playing from a compact defense and go for fast counter attacks. This can be key for Heidenheim if KSC opens more and more. Also the motivation should be on Heidenheim's side, they are doing well have a good run and are aiming for more. They know that they play to avoid relegation but his is done already and they can look forward to have one of the best Seasons ever in their 2.BL history. KSC suffers more and more from the lost relegation battle to Hamburg last Season and they are not able to come out from their bad mood.

PICK: FC Heidenheim AHC +0,25 @ 2,01 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

1899 Hoffenheim - VfL Wolfsburg

After newcomer Nagelsmann took over in Hoffenheim the team is much more flexible and have a lot of options more. The youngster is a tactical fox and he knows how to play the only problem
his idea are not always realizable for the players on the pitch. But overall they have a much better play as to former Coaches like Gisdol and Stevens. They are a offensive minded team and under
Nagelsmann they were always able to score but on the other side they concede in all games as well. Despite this he does not want to change anything. He works on some more tactical options and
that his team is getting more clinical in front of the goal.

VW-Town is coming to Sinsheim with some success in their bag, they won the important encounter to Gladbach 2-1 and also the CL game against Gent 1-0. This maybe give them a lot of self onfidence back for the upcoming weeks and the fight for an international spot. At the moment they are a bit behind but with a win here they can bring them in a better position maybe. And additional hold the pressure on the teams above high. Although they had a lot of problems on the road they were able to overcome Hannover 4-0 at least. Against the next bottom team they hope to do the same but they know also that they face a much better opponent here. For this reason they have to bring all their power on the pitch to get the job done. With Draxler, Schürrle and Kruse they have 3 players up
front which all showed an uptrend in their form what can help to replace important long term injured key striker Dost.

We have two teams here which have to play for a lot, 1899 against relegation Wolfsburg for an international spot. Both teams have their strength more in offense as in defensive therefore we are very sure for goals here. Both offensive lines are able to score above all with such a big potential both have in their rows while both defensive lines are always able to produce mistakes. The goal line should be a good choice here.

PICK: OVER 3 @ 2,01 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Arminia Bielefeld - 1.FC Nürnberg

It is as always in the past weeks, Nürnberg can put some pressure on second placed team Freiburg with a win what was always possible recently. They are coming to Bielefeld with an excellent run of 15 unbeaten matches and of course they want to continue this run. The home team was almost far away from any trouble after winning 2-1 against MSV Duisburg to begin of the year but had a lot of problems to get a result lately. And after the teams behind them collecting some Points they are only 5 Points ahead of the danger zone. Both teams can not allow a gift above all Nürnberg is in a must win situation if they want to hold the pressure high while Bielefeld maybe can life with a draw here.

It was a bit disappointing for Bielefeld not to get the win in Bochum after got a doubtful penalty against them in added time. Bochum scored with this penalty the equalizer but overall the reaction from Bielefeld was there after 2 defeats in a row. Overall they can life with the result although the win has brought them in a much better position as now. One of their key players Klos was out 10 minutes before the end according to some muscle problems. He could not train to begin of the week so far but all are very positive that he can start against Nürnberg. This would be very important for the team as he can not be replaced equal.
The next not available player is Schütz who got injured against Bochum as well. He can be replaced from Behrendt who was ill last week and return this time into the squad what is a big help for Coach Meier. It is also possible that they field a complete new central midfield with Burmeister and Behrendt. This is only because of the weak performance of Junglas in Bochum and he was substitute at half time and replaced from Burmeister who made a good game then. Also new in starting lineup was Horning in central back who made a good game and is an option again. Salger move on the left wing to replace not in form Schuppan at least. This can happen again, of course.

Of course Nürnberg is still unbeaten in 2016 and won 4 of their 6 matches but they did not so well as to the end of 2015. They had some luck and a lot of problems to win the matches above all against Fürth 2-1 and Kaiserslautern 2-1 they scored very late and both maybe were not absolutely deserved. It is not understood that they walk on so easy at the moment. But overall if you win such matches it is a sign for quality and maybe the actual mentality of the team what can be a big advantage in promotion race.
One of the key facts for Nürnberg is the big injury from keeper Schäfer. He is one of the key players and stands for the good run after he returns into the goal after the weak start into the Season. Now after his big injury they must count on Rakovsky again what is not the safest. With him Nürnberg had a lot of problems last Season and to begin too. Despite the absent from Schäfer they have no real choice and must count and trust him now. This can be a big disadvantage in promotion race for Nürnberg and all hope that the old problems arrive not again.
Compared to the last game they can count on Brecko and Leibold again who both returns form suspension. This means that Coach Weiler changes maybe on two positions more but all the others remain unchanged. Additional to last match they can not count on winning goal scorer Stieber who was sent off with yellow red and is suspended here. Therefore one option less on bench for Coach Weiler.  

PICK: Arminia Bielefeld AHC +0,25 @ 1,74 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Werder Bremen - Hannover 96

After the good performance against Leverkusen 4-1 under the week, Bremen is looking for a win at home after a 9 games winless streak in the own stadium. The chance was never better at against bottom side Hannover 96. After losing 5 matches in a row at home they drew 4 times where they scored always at least 1 goal. In the last games they were able to score 2 and 3 but could not win. Maybe this win in Leverkusen gave them the needed self confidence and additional motivation to celebrate with their fans a win at home after a long time. Of course this match is much more different as against Leverkusen where they have to be the active team. This is not what Bremen like or prefer but they are able to get the job done. Some of their young players can get a boost and with inform Pizzaro it is not so impossible to beat this weak side from Hannover.

After winning in Stuttgart after a long time without a success Hannover got some hope back to get the bad situation cleared but after showing a really weak match against Wolfsburg in derby it is absolutely hopeless to give this team a real chance in relegation battle. Of course they are only 6 Points behind 16. placed Frankfurt but the other teams do not sleep as well. For the upcoming matches they need wins urgently otherwise it is impossible for them to avoid the worst case. Almost all stats speaks against them and this is what makes it so difficult for them. The new winter signings were not what they expect and they are all behind the expectations in them. The last hope was the return from midfield player Kiyotake who was involved in both goals against Stuttgart but he alone can not win matches. The form is average after long injury time but with free kicks he can make the difference.

Although Bremen has big problems at home to win matches I think this is the right opponent to the right time now. After 9 winless matches it is time for them to give their great fans some back. Against no other actual BL club has Hannover more defeats as against Bremen (28), only Gladbach (29) and Bayern (36) more. From 55 matches against Bremen could Hannover only win 12 and conceded in these matches 122 goals. Of course in the last 3 games were Hannover unbeaten (1-2-0) to Bremen but they managed never more in a row. Moreover they won only 1 of 27 BL matches in Bremen, this was 13 years ago. Last but not least, from the last 12 matches in Bremen they lost 8 and were 7 times without scoring a single goal. In this period they could score 8 goals but conceded 33!!! Time for a home win today.  

PICK: Werder Bremen AHC -0,75 @ 1,80 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Eintracht Frankfurt - FC Ingolstadt 04

The team from Frankfurt started good with a win into 2016 but in the upcoming matches they were not able to continue this and they are on a huge downtrend right now. Coach Veh wants to play am offensive style of football but the case is much different according to their weak offensive power. Most of the new signed players are not in the form to get this job done or they are maybe much too slow like Hustzi. The truth is that they have problems in all parts of their team. If the stability in defensive, the compactness in midfield or the power in attack. In the last 3 they could not score a single goal and tried only to be as compact as they can that they not concede. Two times with success but in attack was nothing which can make some hope right now. From the last 4 they scored 1 time  but they conceded 5 in these 4. In front of this important game for Frankfurt it is not the best situation there. Coach Veh has to find the right balance for his team between defensive and offensive but he can not count on important players like wing Aigner suspended and up front striker Meier who is key for this team with his goals.

The newcomer from Ingolstadt plays a really great Season and know one has expect such a great one. They are doing very well and they are also very hard to play. The system from Coach Hasenhüttl is working very well. They defend very compact and allow not much and on the other side they are really dangerous with their fast offensive players. Also with the free kicks and corners they can score as they have some tall and quick players in their rows. They have no stars, only the team is important and stand on first step what exactly bring this great success. Their aim is to avoid relegation and with 31 on their side it is not far away that they manage this goal very early in the Season. For today they have not the biggest problems and can count on the same lineup as in the past.

A very important match for the home side but in the actual form it is hard to see them winning against a very solid and compact playing team from Ingolstadt. Frankfurt is not in the position that they can score a lot right now, no they are in deep crisis and against a team who knows to defend it would be hard. Also they are maybe not a team who loves to make the game what they must do today as Ingolstadt plays on counter for sure. If they must open more and more it can be that they get the logical bill. Additional was seen in the last home games that most of the Frankfurt players have a lot of fear to make some mistakes, this is a real sign for no self confidence.

PICK: FC Ingolstadt 04 AHC +0,25 @ 1,75 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

1860 München - SV Sandhausen

After the first match day 2016 the distance between both teams was big with 16 Points but 4 Rounds later 1860 could close the gap to 9 Points and with a win today they can bring Sandhausen in danger for the last Rounds of the Season. The trend is absolutely positive for the team from Coach Möhlmann. They showed already to begin a much better style of play but had not the luck on their side but the last two against Düsseldorf 3-2 and Kaiserslautern 1-0 they had it and are unbeaten in 3 now. On the other side Sandhausen started really well and had a great first half of the Season but the last games showed a big downtrend and they were not able to get much. Only 5 Points out of the last 9 matches and this is a big disaster what should have been stopped from them. The last three are all lost.

To begin 1860 lost both matches to Nürnberg 0-1 and Union Berlin 0-3 but in both they should have got some as they showed a good performance but were not able to use some of their good opportunities they got in these matches. In the last 3 they were more clinical but had a lot of luck too. In last game they defend like hell and used the only chance they had in this game to win this match. According to the good performance it is absolutely possible that Möhlmann fields the same starting lineup again. In this case Lacazette replace injured Stahl in central midfield again. All the other positions remain unchanged also the attack with 2 strikers.

It was very important for Sandhausen that they won the first match against Paderborn this year otherwise they are already in a positon where they get some problems and the pressure on them are getting higher and higher. Nevertheless they are still in a good position and with a draw they can life of course today. It is not impossible that Coach Schwartz makes some changes according to the last matches and the weak performances. One change is possible anyway because with Klingmann saw a player the yellow red card against Nürnberg and is suspended for this game today. His replacement can be defensive Allrounder Schulz. Some good news are also there for Sandhausen as with Hübner gave one player his comeback against Nürnberg while Kosecki will return into the squad after long injury time today. Also important striker Wooten is back after gave his comeback against Nürnberg additional and he is a real option for Coach Schwartz in offensive today now. He can help to improve the offensive performance from Sandhausen immediately.

Union Berlin - Karlsruher SC

Both teams were looking to the top places before the Season but the truth is much different after 22 matches now. Both have to look forward to get as soon as possible 40 Points to be safe early in the Season. Union had a lot of problems above all at home and could only win twice there. Nevertheless they have with 9 Points a good advantage to the bottom zone and this should be enough for the last matches not to get in danger. Of course they are only 3 Points behind KSC but both are only in the midfield of the table right now. KSC has with 8 Points to the top maybe a small chance with a winning streak to return but it is not realistic anyway.

Some problems are already there in Berlin and the next was that Coach Lewandowski got ill and is not available in the upcoming 3 weeks for his team. The interim Coach Hofschneider moves into the position as Head-Coach but he said that he does not want to make much changes compared to the last game. He has no contact to Lewandowski right now and they are working to prepare the team well for the game against KSC.
According to the long injury list with 7 absent players he has not the options to changes much anyway. The only good news is maybe the return from top striker Wood who is a candidate to be available again after he must pass against RB Leipzig. He should replace Quaner in attack and bring a bit more power and dangerousness in the play from Union who was not to see in Leipzig. No other changes possible, only that midfield player Zejnullahu could be out too according to his big problems at the moment.

In Karlsruhe they had to be satisfied with the result to Braunschweig 2-2 although they were expecting much more before the game. But after Sallihi saw the yellow red card they were lucky to come back and equalize in the end with Diamantakos who came surprisingly from bench in this game. Therefore Coach Kauczinski has to replace Sallihi on the wing for this match. For this position he has two opportunities. Former back wing Kempe is ready after knee injury and can replace Sallihi now or Valentini move from the right to the left wing while Traut move into the team and plays on the right wing. All the other positions maybe remain unchanged but Stoll is a big doubt in central back after having some problems in training with his thigh. For him can starts Gordon in central back who sit on bench for long time now. Also Diamantakos is an option from beginning on again while Hoffer is out of the starting lineup then.

We expect a close game with slight advantage for KSC and therefore we go for the away team here.

PICK: Karlsruher SC AHC +0,25 @ 1,75 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

1899 Hoffenheim - FSV Mainz 05

A lot of troubel this Season in Hoffenheim, also a lot of changes on the sideline. They started with Gisdol but after less success they changed to Stevens a experienced Coach who should turn things around in relegation fight. This was not much the case and Stevens said good bye because of some heart problems. Now they count on a 28 years old unexperienced guy what is a big risk maybe. Planed was to work with him in the new Season but they have no real replacement for Stevens and gave him the trust to bring 1899 on track and out of the danger zone. His debut was good and he managed a draw against rival Bremen what was a success for them after some disappointing results lately. This is his first home match and they do all that the support will be there for the team. They started some advertising for the game against Mainz to get the stadium full. Despite this good idea the truth is on the pitch and it is very interesting how his team react at home where they are in a positon to be active and make the game and not as in Bremen react and go for counter. With Kamaric he has one players to replace due to suspension, also Herdling is out with knee injury.

 

The team from Mainz is high flying at the moment and they are running from win to win. Coach Schmidt is riding the wave of success but he was warning his players before the game in Hoffenheim. Also he talked a lot to his players under the week to find out if they have the right attitude for this game to continue their run. Some of his players are in a very good shape and this is some of the key facts that they are so good right now despite some missing players like important striker Muto. Also Donati suspended and Bell injured will be not available this time. Donati should be replaced by Brosinski who played the first half of the Season on this position on the wing. In central back he has with Bungert a good replacement but also youngster Hacke can be an option. All in all he expects a taff game but they have the weapons to take advantage in this game. The stability and compactness are key to stop the fast players from Hoffenheim and they can create some opportunities with fast counter attacks as well.

 

We have two teams with different situations. The home side comes with new Coach Nagelsmann into this game and is almost in a must win situation to close the gap to Bremen while Mainz has an excellent run and a lof of self confidence. Despite the new Coach I believe that Mainz can get a result here and continue their run.

PICK: FSV Mainz 05 AHC +0,25 @ 1,76 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Eintracht Frankfurt - Hamburger SV

Very im important match for the home team because after the win to begin against VfL Wolfsburg followed a big downtrend. They were not able to get much and getting more and more in danger now with only 1 Point ahead of Place 16. Therefore this game against Hamburg is absolutely key for them. On the other side had Hamburg a lot of Problems and they are falling down more and more but was able to win the game against Gladbach 3-2 at home last weekend what let them put some Points between them and danger zone. With 26 Points they are not safe of course but can work a bit more relaxed as the teams behind them.

Before the winter break Frankfurt was getting involved into relegation battle after a very bad run. They were thinking what should they do that they can avoid the worst case this Season. Coach Veh said that he wants some more option for his offensive play. Manager Hübner did the work and signed with Huszti and Fabian two guys with a lot of potential. But the main problems are in their defensive play. Sometimes they miss important players due to injury or suspension and sometimes they are not on best shape. Nevertheless they signed two players with Ayhan and Regäsel there too. But they solved not the main problem, the team is too offensive minded. All players working excellent if they have the ball but against the ball it is a lot to improve. Above all in central midfield where Stendera played at least, he is a very creative player but has his strength in offense not in defense. Also on the wing they had problems, youngster Regäsel should help to solve it but he had the best action also in offensive. Coach Veh does not count a lot on defensive, he tries to be successful in relegation battle with a very offensive minded team and does not care a lot of defensive work.

The start from Hamburg into 2016 was not so well with 2 defeats in a row. They started to do better against Cologne at home with a draw but they had some luck there. Nevertheless they improved in the last match a lot and they won to Gladbach 3-2 at home. This was maybe key for them to stay away from red zone what let Coach Labbadia and his team work a bit more relaxed and without any pressure for the upcoming match in Frankfurt. The preparation should be done with more fun and the motivation and mood can be much better with a win in the bag. Also it is very clear that they have less problems if they do not have to make the game. They can sit back and go for counter over their fast wings. This is what they like and the space will be there also against Frankfurt who is a very offensive minded team. In this case they are much more dangerous and create more.

The match up is exactly how Hamburg needs it. Frankfurt is in a positon where they must to be active and force the offensive play while Hamburg is coming over their fast players and try to use the space they get and overcome Frankfurt. Both teams are able to score and this will be the case, the offensive power from Frankfurt is to big to stop them while the defensive work from them is average what can Hamburg us of course. At the end we get an open game where we can expect at least 3 goals.

PICK: OVER 2,75 @ 2,09 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Greuther Fürth - MSV Duisburg

Very important match for MSV Duisburg and almost their last chance to keep hope alive to avoid relegation what is almost impossible. Between both teams are 16 Points and this says all at the moment. Fürth could take advantage with their 2-1 win to FSV Frankfurt last weekend because all of the teams behind them lose. This keep them in a very good position with 11 Points difference to the bottom zone what is almost impossible to bring them in danger right now.
MSV is only 5 Points behind place 16. what is their aim right now but to close the gap from 5 Points is not as easy at it looks for them according to their actual form. Also the teams above are getting Points sooner or later what makes it more difficult additional. Nevertheless they are planning already for 3.Bundesliga because all of them are realistic in club although the hope is there to enter Place 16. in the end. But they must win in Fürth of course if they want to have a chance and stay in the battle for the upcoming weeks.

After the 0-2 to St. Pauli at home Coach Ruthenbeck was very disappointed with his team and talked a lot from changes. May he has found the right things because his team was much better in Frankfurt where they could celebrate a 2-1 win against FSV. In all parts of the team they were working well and showed a good performance and it was a step forward in their style of play too. The Coach was very happy with his team a the new stability they showed in their play. Despite the good performance they must confirm it again this weekend.

According to the good play and the excellent changes before the game to FSV there are no changes expected. Coach Ruthenbeck should count on the same starting lineup again. He changed in central back with Franke instead of Röcker and also in central midfield played Hirsch while Stiepermann could move forward and replaced Tripic there.

They had so many hopes in their first home game 2016 and also that they can close the gap to the team above a bit. But after one minute their dreams were gone. In the following 89. Minutes they were trying a lot but only striker Tomane could convince a bit and it was seen that the quality in team is too less. They do not find a way to overcome KSC and they play was very limited, not many idea anyway. Nevertheless the hopes are still there in Duisburg but they have to improve a lot and if they do not find a way to score it is absolutely impossible to win matches. They have a lot of games where they were not able to score a single goal what is the main problem. For this match Coach Gruev who started well as Coach but was not able to win in the last 5 games with MSV plans some changes. First one is in central midfield where Holland is back from suspension who move in the team immediately and replace Albutat who was not so bad against KSC and one of the active players.

In attack they have a lot of problems and most of the players could not convince there. With Scheidhauer is an attacker out of the team despite good preparation but Chanturia his replacement disappointed too what let Onuegbu and Iljutcenko hope for a starting place against Fürth.

The home team should have the much better class and take advantage of this against a team who has a lot of problems on the road and scored only 6 times.

PICK: Greuther Fürth AHC -0,5 @ 1,97 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Union Berlin - 1860 München

We have only 4 Places between this two teams but already 10 Points before Round 21. Union has still some distance to the danger zone but should not feel to safe already. On the other side 1860 is still under some pressure and they should try to get some Points, this is maybe the right time because all of their rivals failed this weekend so far. They wanted to start well into 2016 but they were not able to beat Nürnberg although they made a great game and showed some improvements according to their play 2015. But all in all only the result counts and this was negative with 0-1. Union had a really weak start into 2016 and was behind 0-2 already but in the end they showed great fighting spirit and made a great comeback to get at least a Point in Kaiserslautern.

If we look back to 2015 and the last results where they can beat Düsseldorf 3-0 and Sandhausen 1-0 the trend is positive for them right now. But the main aim before the Season was Place 1-6 and right now they are far away from this. Nevertheless Coach Lewandowski wants to climb up some places and have a nice end for this Season.
Compared to the last matches he has to replace some players because with Thiel and Skrzybski they got two injured players against Kaiserslautern. Both are out long time now beside Korte. This let Lewandowski thing about some good alternatives. He has some in back but it is also possible to change the system from practiced 3-5-2 to a more compact 4-2-3-1. With Pogatetz they singed a new defender in the break, he should help to lead the defensive line but was out due to illness in the past. This time he can move into the starting lineup, also Brandy and Redondo are options for the offensive part. Doubtful under the week were Zejnullahu and Leistner but they are maybe ready to start.

If you have seen 1860 to the end of 2015 and to begin of 2016 it was a big step forward although they lost 0-1 to Nürnberg. They were much more creative and had 10-7 chances in this game and it was only due to the top class of Nürnberg's keeper Schäfer that they did not score. Despite the lose the play of them was improved a lot as already mentioned above. With some new players in the starting lineup they have much more power and creativity up front. Also the defensive worked much better with new singing Mauersberger who is an very experienced player and chief of the defensive now.
Also striker Mölders or midfield player Aycicek gives the team much more power. The only missing player who should be key in Möhlmanns idea is Sukalo who comes from Greuther Fürth but he has some problems and know one knows from where they are. He miss this game again. Also new guy Beister is not ready for the starting lineup but he had some good actions and showed that he can help the team when he comes in and push them additionally. After the good performance Möhlmann counts on the same starting lineup as against Nürnberg again.

This encounter is the next big chance for 1860 to bring them back into a better position in relegation battle. After Paderborn losing to Kaiserslautern they can overcome them with a win. This is very important to close the gap to the teams ahead as the upcoming weeks are getting more and more difficult and the pressure is getting higher and higher. They may face the right opponent to the right time with Union as this team has a lot of problems at home and could win only twice in their stadium this Season so far. Against 1860 they are winless in 6 attempts and this let 1860 hope a lot to continue the run. The former fortress from Union is gone although the crowd is great there. We believe for a good result for bottom team 1860 because not every team can fail from the bottom this weekend.

PICK: 1860 München AHC +0,5 @ 1,81 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

SC Freiburg - Fortuna Düsseldorf

Both teams had not the best start into 2016 because both lost their opening game. The second place team from Freiburg was not able to hold Bochum down and lost there 0-2. They are now in a situation where all the rivals are very close to them and they have them in back already what put them in a must win situation now. If they lose again Nürnberg can overcome them on monday and they are losing the good position they had for long time. In Düsseldorf they wait for better times and changed the Coach again what let them hope to get out of all the trouble but it was not possible and they showed really nothing against Heidenheim and lost deserved 0-1. If they can not get any Points in the upcoming weeks they are very close to fall behind the red line and the situation is getting more difficult for them as they are at the moment already.

With 4 wins out of the last 5 games before the winter break was Freiburg on a good way and they were defending their good position against Teams like Nürnberg and St. Pauli. After the first game it is a bit gone above all the advantage they had because of their lose. With two strikers Nielsen and Niederlechner they want to give their offensive new power although they have one of the best in this league. Despite this two guys they were not able to score above all Niederlechner had good actions and attempts on goal but was unlucky so far. Their top striker Petersen is still out and a big miss for the team from Coach Streich. Additional they miss with Philipp and Frantz two very good players who showed their strength in 2015 and they were key for success of Freiburg.

All three should be out again and Coach Streich is searching for a good balance and more danger in front of the goal. With Nielsen and Niederlechner starts the two new guys again but they must be more clinical today. No other changes expected.

It was not much which let Düsseldorf hope after the first game 2016. They were really awful and had a lot of problems above all their offensive play is harmless and they have to improve a lot there. But with which players should they do this. They are facing this problem some month now and if they are not able to score it is very hard to win matches. One goal ok but this is too less above all against a top team like Freiburg is. Therefore Coach Kurz must find the right tactic to overcome this strong opponent but have also take an eye on the defensive work too. Not much players are in good shape, only Rensing and Demirbay are maybe players who can lead this team but this is too less in relegation fight. 

It is very open if Kurz put out the same starting lineup as against Heidenheim. Some changes are possible. With Bellinghausen he has a fighter in hand who can bring some power in their play, also Bolly with his quickness on the wing and for some fast counter attacks. With Ya Konan they miss a striker suspended while new signing Mavrias and Djurdjic has his hopes but they had a bad performance against Heidenheim anyway.

Overall this match is very interesting. Promotion candidate against relegation candidate but if we compare both sides it is almost a clear thing for Freiburg in their own and close stadium despite their missing players. The class are there and they can be very dangerous anyway. On the other side is Düsseldorf a team who has not the best moment therefore advantage Freiburg !!!

MSV Duisburg - Karlsruher SC

Both teams expected much more for the start but Duisburg got the 12 defeat this Season to Bielefeld 1-2 while Karlsruhe had a lot of luck to get a draw against FSV Frankfurt. With this draw KSC has 10 Points to the top 3 and this seems almost impossible to close this big gap in the upcoming matches as they need an excellent run. MSV has already 8 Points to the safe zone and 5 Points to Place 16. what is their goal now. To close the gap they must start winning immediately and hope that the rivals all fail as last weekend.

Bottom Team Duisburg collected 6 Points out of 5 matches before the winter break but according to the situation and the very weak start into the Season under former Coach Lettieri who managed only 6 Points in 13 matches is too less to remain in 2.Bundesliga. New Coach Gruev had more success but it was also to less and with the lost game in Bielefeld after taking the lead early he was very disappointed in the end. It was seen in their test friendlies that it is an up and down with very bad results and also good results. The stability is not there to start a winning streak what is needed urgently if they do not want to lose all their hope and chances already at this time of the Season. One of their biggest hopes is new signed striker Tomane who should help to solve the offensive problem as they have the weakest offense in 2.Bundesliga. In the remaining 14 matches they need around 25 Points to have a chance to stay in the league. For this they should start winning immediately otherwise they are already relegated. But if all their rivals losing as well the chance is still there, of course. Nevertheless they made a good game in Bielefeld fight hard but was a bit unlucky in the end above all if they fall behind they had some problems to bounce back. Also the luck was not on their side because they got a clear penalty not rewarded what should have turned the match into a better way for them.

The starting lineup can be chanced a bit above all in defense where Bohl showed a much better performance as central back before the winter break as on the wing now. He gave the team much more stability in the middle, therefore Feltscher can move back on his position on the wing and starts after sitting on bench in Bielefeld. Also in central midfield is Holland suspended and must be replaced,. The first one for this position is Albutat. The other positions should remain unchanged according to less alternatives.

The team from Coach Kauczinski moved very well into the winter break after winning to St. Pauli and Fürth. Also the preparation was excellent with some good wins above all against Bayern Munich where they showed a real good performance and should have won higher as only 2-1. This was maybe in some of the players head as they showed a really weak performance against FSV Frankfurt and had a lot of luck not to lose in the end what should have been deserved for them. With this draw they can be happy but their aim is to move up and get closer to the top 3 but after such a performance they are not really ready for.

Overall they have to improve a lot in all parts of the team. According to last performance some changes are possible. First one is Kempe who must pass injured while Sallihi replaced him well and scored the equalizer against FSV Frankfurt what gave him some self confidence as well. In midfield and offensive are Nazarov and Fahrenholz options what gave Barry and Torres some pressure now. The third Gouaida made a better game and should be safe.

Both teams have the weakest offense with 16 and 20 goals scored so far, therefore not many goals expected anyway. This can be a big fight between two teams which search for a better future. I compare both at the same level above all MSV is much better at home while KSC has some problems on the road. All the last 6 matches ended with a positive outcome for the home team what let us hope to get something out of this game with the HC on our side. A draw should be possible for MSV at least although they are almost in a must win situation. 

PICK: MSV Duisburg AHC +0,25 @ 2,02 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Week Performance (5) !!!

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Week 5 !!!

All Advices can be checked additionally under Tab "Archive GER-Picks" + "Archive EUR-Picks" + "Archive POD". Of course, all Advices are verified !!!


German Soccer Advices:

05.02.2016	20:30	1.BL	Bor. M'Gladbach	vs.	Werder Bremen	OVER	>3	1,75	5-1
06.02.2016	15:30	1.BL	FC Schalke 04	vs.	VfL Wolfsburg	1	0	1,77	3-0
06.02.2016	15:30	1.BL	Eintracht Frankfurt	vs.	VfB Stuttgart	OVER	>3	1,98	2-4
				vs.
				vs.

We are VERIFIED with Bettingadvice Surveillance Team and Blogabet !!!


S T A T I S T I C:

Total (GER):

PICKS	WON	VOID	LOST	HITRATE	STAKE	PROFIT	YIELD
326	175	30	121	59,12%	978	+74,785	8,42%

All Seasons (GER):

SEASON	PICKS	WON	VOID	LOST	HITRATE	STAKE	PROFIT	YIELD
2015/16	47	25	4	18	58,14%	141	+8,145	6,314%
2014/15	73	42	4	27	60,87%	219	+22,40	10,821%
2013/14	87	47	9	31	60,26%	261	+23,30	9,957%
2012/13	119	61	13	45	57,55%	357	+20,94	6,585%

February 2016 (GER):

PICKS	WON	VOID	LOST	HITRATE	STAKE	PROFIT	YIELD
3	3	0	0	100,00%	9	7,50	83,333%

Eintracht Frankfurt - VfB Stuttgart

Statistic:

- Frankfurt's record is really not the best against Stuttgart with 30-19-40.
- Only against Bayern (47), Dortmund and Hamburg (41) they lost more games in BL.
- From the last 10 games in Frankfurt won Stuttgart 7, 1 draw and 2 defeats.
- In these matches Stuttgart scored incredible 2,6 goals average and scored in every game.
- The last meeting was an amazing spectacle with a 5-4 for Stuttgart.
- Eintracht scored 150 goals against Stuttgart in their BL history, against no other team more.
- But on the other side scored Stuttgart 167 goals against Frankfurt, also their highest number.
- Stuttgart won 3 BL matches in a row now and collected more Points under Kramny as under Zorniger.
- The last time they start such a rund was under Coach Labbadia in April 2011 with 4 wins in a row.
- Alex Meier scored at home 9 times in 7 matches, on the road he has only 1 in 8 matches.

Very important match for both teams, both are even with 21 Points and only the winner can look to climb up and get a more comfortable distance to the drop zone. With only 2 Points ahead of Bremen it is very important not to lose Points at this moment otherwise they will have some hard weeks.

Veh’s team had a very bad period before the winter break but they come out very well and won to Wolfsburg 3-2 and got a Point in Augsburg 0-0. Despite the good start and unbeaten run 2016 they must be aware of their situation. They can not make any gifts now, no they should try to walk on and leave the danger zone in the next weeks. For this important second half of the Season Manager Hübner signed a few new players like Husti for the midfield, Fabian for the attack and Ayhan for the defensive. Despite the good two matches they signed additional two players from Hertha BSC with Ben Hatira and Regäsel which puts Veh in an excellent position with a lot of options more he can choose now. Compared to the last match changes are a must because two players from the defensive line are suspended with Abraham and Hasebe. It is more as open what Veh plans as he let the team train behind closed doors. The alternative can be to move Russ back from midfield into central back while Husti plays central beside Stendera in midfield. At the open position on back wing can get Ayhan a chance from beginning on or he puts youngster Regäsel immediately into the starting lineup. This is more as open. In offensive has Ben Hatira also good chances to get some minutes as he is a player who can decide a game with his quick moves.  

After Stuttgart’s decision to suck Zorniger and gave Kramny their trust it is much better now. They are doing a much better job and having much better numbers compared to the former Coach. Also they have much more success as well. They are unbeaten in 5 now and coming to Frankfurt with 3 wins in a row what push their self confidence very well. With wins to Cologne and Hamburg 2016 they are aiming for better times and also for more stability. Under Zorniger the play was only offensive minded and they forgot to defend, Kramny made it possible that the balance between offensive and defensive is much better. Of course he saved not all problems but most of them. Nevertheless they are playing an offensive style but with much more compactness. They are creating a lot of attempts on goal but they use much more as to begin of the Season now. It looks like that Kramny found the right balance and feeling for his team what the last matches showed, of course. Although Harnik is back from long injury he sits on bench as joker while attacker Ginczek is still working to recover from knee injury. Therefore the same starting lineup is expected as last week.

Both teams are in good shape 2016 so far and both are aiming to get out of the trouble at the bottom. Despite the good results both showed that they have a really good offensive but in the defensive work they are very unstable. Additional has Frankfurt to change their defensive line two times what help them not much for compactness. We believe in goals in this encounter.

PICK: OVER 3 @ 1,98 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

FC Schalke 04 - VfL Wolfsburg

Statistic:

- Schalke won the last 5 home games against Wolfsburg with 13-3 goals difference.
- The last win in Gelsenkirchen celebrated Wolfsburg in September 2009 with 2-1.
- In all their 18 matches in Veltins Arena could Wolfsburg never keep a clean sheet.
- In these 18 matches they have lost 10 times, 5 draws and 3 wins by conceding 33 goals.
- They are coming to Schalke with a winless run from 6 games now (0-3-3).
- The last time they have such a big negative run was under Coach Magath with 7 matches in a row.
- Additional they are very harmless on the road with only 6 Points collected, at the bottom of road table.
- The only win away from home was against newcomer Darmstadt with 1-0.
- S04 scored the most goals after counter attacks in the league. This is clear with Sane and Meyer.
- Wolfsburg scored no counter goal this Season, last Season they were with 10 very successful.

A lot of trouble arrived at Schalke after the harsh 1-3 defeat to Bremen to begin of the second half of the Season. They took the lead early but could not take advantage of their good chances they had and Bremen used almost all what let them win here. Breitenreiter was criticized in the medias but he could bring his team back on track with the 2-0 win to Darmstadt what was a very good sign of the team as well. They showed some good actions despite the awful pitch they had to play there and with Mayer and Sane they had two really good offensive wings who made the difference. The team looked much better as against Bremen and they used their chances this time and allowed nothing in defense. It looks like that Breitenreiter counts the third time on the same starting lineup what will help the team as they know the process much better. At home they were only beaten from defensive minded teams like Cologne and Bremen and also of giant Bayern Munich. Against all the other teams they were able to get at least a result. With Wolfsburg they are facing a team who can not play defense at all because of their more offensive style. This can bring Schalke in a very good position and all hope that they can continue the positive way now.

I wrote already a lot the last two Rounds from the actual form and trend from Wolfsburg. Nothing has changed so far. They are the weakest road time this Season with only 6 Points collected and only 6 goals scored in 9 matches but 16 conceded in these. Of course it had been much better if they had used their good opportunities the whole Season. It was also seen against Frankfurt or Cologne lately that all the players have not the freshness and quickness of last Season where all was working for them. This time they have all much worse statistics and this shows the trend of the team. In Frankfurt it was close and maybe a coin toss who will win because a really open game. Against Cologne they had a lot of problems to open their play against a well organized team. Both central back Naldo and Dante were awful and produced many mistakes, it is not sure if Hecking changes there. With Knoche he has one in back to give him a chance. In central midfield they have a big lose with fighter Gustavo. He was back after injury but booked his 5th yellow card and is out again. With ihm Wolfsburg is much better and has much more stability, also they collected more Points with him as without him. If Träsch returns after illness he can replace him in central midfield and play beside Guilavogui. Very possible is also that Vieirinha move back and replace Jung on the back wing while Caliguri moves into the starting lineup again. But it is not sure yet because with Schürrle they have one offensive player doubtful. In this case Jung can remain in the starting lineup if Schürrle is not ready. The most problems are up front, with Dost they have their most dangerous attacker injured, Bendtner his replacement is not really a good one, Kruse has some form problems, Schürrle needs to many attempts for goals and Draxler has some good moments but this is not enough.

Very important match for both teams, both are fighting for an international spot and should not lose more ground. Schalke has overcome Wolfsburg already and is 3 Points ahead of them. What makes it much easier for them. Also the return from former S04 player Draxler should have a positive effect for S04. It is expected a big hail of catcalls against him the whole match from the crowd. This should push Schalke additional. The actual form is clear on the home side, Wolfsburg in big crisis, away from home anyway.

PICK: FC Schalke 04 AHC 0 @ 1,77 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Bor. M'Gladbach - Werder Bremen

These two teams meet each other twice this Season already. Both has won Bremen, in league and in Cup where they could win a great entertaining game in Gladbach. If both sides meet each other recently it was always a really great spectacle and according to Bremen’s defensive and offensive form it is not far from that again anyway.

After a really great run with Schubert on the sideline the team showed some problems in 2016 so far. It may can be that some of their key players are not ready because of injuries or suspension. Above all in central back they are very short of options due to many missing players. To solve this they signed Hinteregger but he has not reached his top level and need still some matches to get a better feeling for Bundesliga football. Also the absent from captain and head of the team Xhaka in central midfield is a big blow right now. They tried to find the right balance without him but it was not exactly what they expected and the problems were there more and more. With Dahoud they had the second starter in midfield out last game and both could not replaced what let them lose to Mainz 0-1. This time he is expected back in squad but it is a small doubt behind him but nevertheless the hope is there that he can help the team for more balance between defensive and offensive again. Although they lost both games 2016 the offensive play was not so bad and were absolutely able to create a lot of good opportunities. But they wasted with and therefore it was not possible to win. With Raffael, Traore, Hofmann, Johnson and Stindl they have really good offensive power. If Dahoud is not able to start Schubert will count again on a 4-1-4-1 system what he already used in Mainz.

It was very important for Bremen to start well into 2016 above all to hold the contact to the teams above. With 19 Points they are still 5 Points ahead to get direct relegated but they have also 2 Points less to the teams above and stand on Place 16 which is not a safe one as they have to play two matches against the third of 2.Bundesliga to remain in 1.BL. The moral and team spirit is excellent because they had to come two times from behind, Schalke 0-1 (3-1) and Hertha 1-3 (3-3). All players know what the time has brought to them right now and they are looking forward to continue their good play and run. According to the situation they have they must walk on and try to get all possible Points out of this encounter. Their offensive is working good at the moment with Ujah and Pizzarro up front while the wings are build with Öztunali and Grillitsch both did their job but Coach Skripnik is thinking to bring Bartels and Kleinheisler because both made a lot of noise against Hertha and helped to turn this match to a positive end. In defense should be all the same and in central midfield as well.

Overall both teams are aiming for the win, Gladbach after starting with two loses into 2016 and also losing 5 of the last 6 must try to turn things around while Bremen comes to Gladbach with a lot of self confidence after turning 2 matches into their way. Gladbach really strong home side against Bremen one of the best away teams this Season but both have conceded a lot. Both have a lot of problems to defend well also both keeper has not the best statistic this Season. Both offensive rows are very powerful and should be able to deliver a few goals.

PICK: OVER 3 @ 1,75 Flat Stake (3 Units)

Bayern München - 1899 Hoffenheim

The last match of Round 19 is a special one above all the big class difference between both sides makes this encounter very interesting. Leader Bayern Munich is looking for their 10. home win while 1899 Hoffenheim is getting more and more in trouble. They are already 4 Points behind the safe zone and losing more and more to the teams above. In this case they are almost in a situation where they must win otherwise they are close to get relegated this Season.

League Leader Bayern Munich is not only one step ahead of the other teams in the league, no they are already two or three. They have a really great squad and if they miss one or two it is not necessary for them as they have a lot in back who has almost the same class. The squad is very well balanced and all positions are double manned. Therefore Coach Guardiola can choose from a lot and he has the skills to find the right system and tactical instruction for his team to overcome every opponent so far. Against bottom side Hoffenheim he must expect a very deep defending opponent again. If they can score an early one it would be very helpful for their game but if not they are always able to score 3-4 goals as they can not be controlled or defend all the game.

The injury from Boateng in central back is a big blow for the team from Bayern but with Martinez they should have the right replacement for the upcoming matches. Also Robben has not reached his top level and should be on bench again while Coman takes his place. He showed a really great performance in Hamburg and therefore should start. Costa is back after a long absent in December and can help to bring the offensive play forward today too. They have still some unavailable players with Ribery, Götze, Benatia and Rafinha but the starting lineup and the bench should be strong enough anyway.

The situation is getting very bad in Hoffenheim as they have already 5 Points to place 16. and 7 to the safe zone. This is almost a must to get Points but a draw is to less if they want not to lose more ground to the teams above. They are at the bottom with Hannover 96 and both teams look like relegation candidates this Season. After they have sold their best offensive player Firmino to Liverpool in the summer they have not the offensive power and class in their play so far. This player was the fix point of their play and with his actions and idea he was a guarantee for Points for 1899 Hoffenheim. But he is not available anymore and they must try to find the right balance and players for the offensive play. It is very hard as most of the players are very young and have a lot ups and downs at this age. To begin under Gisdol they tried with Zuber a guy behind the attackers but he disappointed. Under new Coach Stevens Amiri was the man behind but he got injured and in the first match against Leverkusen Stevens gave Hamad his trust who scored immediately but showed also that he has a lot of improvements. For this reason they are searching for an experienced player for this position but if they buy one they stopped the process from the youngsters in their career. All of them has to learn a lot but at the moment it is not the time, they need players which can walk on and give the team stability and hope that they can avoid relegation as some years ago. 
Some problems arrived additional in central midfield because with Schwegler and Polanski are two experienced players out for today. Also Stobl was ill and returned into training on thursday but it is not sure if he is at 100%. In offensive they miss with Elyounoussi also a very quick guy. Of course Stevens has some options with Bicakcic for Schär in central back, Amiri for Hamad in central midfield also Zuber and Kuranyi are back in the squad. 

The leader Bayern Munich against bottom team Hoffenheim should be a clear thing above all in Munich in their arena where they always showed great matches and scored a lot. I can not see any other outcome as the win from Bayern and of course with at least a margin of 3 goals of more. The pressure will be very high all the match and Hoffenheim can not hold all away above all they are getting more and more tired and this produce a lot of mistakes too. The defensive play is not the best anyway from 1899 and they conceded always and their offensive play is harmless as mentioned above. Bayern has all the weapons they need to win this match comfortable. Let's roll .....

PICK: Bayern Munich AHC -2,5 @ 1,84 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

FSV Mainz 05 - Bor. M'Gladbach

It was not so much what Mainz showed against Ingolstadt. They were not able to put some pressure on Ingolstadt all the game and additional had no real idea how to overcome this defensive minded team. In first game they was absolutely dominated from Ingolstadt and the 0-1 lose was deserved, this time they were not dominated but at least controlled from Ingolstadt and lost again 0-1 due to a doubtful penalty. Overall they should weak up and looking forward to the next matches but they have to invest much more to get something out of the games. Maybe this time it can be a bit better because with Gladbach they get an active team who wants to play offensive and not to sit back and wait what the opponent is doing and defending only. In this case they get more space for their offensive play and their fast and quick players.

Coach Schmitt can make a few changes compared to the game in Ingolstadt. He has a lot to choose form as he has almost all players ready and this gave him a lot of options. In offensive should Muto return into the attack as they were really harmless without him last match. Also the wings need more power what let some players hope to start. 

After a great run under Schubert with only 1 defeat since he took over from Favre they got the 2nd lose which was absolutely deserved. Dortmund was dominating the game really well and if they have used all their good opportunities the win should have been much higher. Gladbach was suffering a bit and with some key players absent they were not able to be as dominant in midfield as they can. They gave the whole midfield away and this was maybe key, also their defensive had a lot of problems with the fast play from Dortmund. With a very young central back not a big surprise anyway. Despite this lose they have still a lot of quality in their rows but Coach Schubert must find the right mix and balance for the upcoming matches. The fight for an international spot is key for Gladbach and their biggest aim this Season, of course.

Normally Coach Schubert has a lot to choose from but this time he has some problems to get a good starting eleven on the pitch. With Dominguez and Jantschke he miss two starters for the defensive line, in central midfield Xhaka suspended, on the offensive wing Herrmann and Hahn and additional Schulz who is new from Hertha BSC but has not so many minutes this Season. The next big problem is Dahoud who face a hand injury and can not play maybe what some media said. This is a big blow as with him the whole central midfield is out (Xhaka and Dahoud). In this case it would be interesting what Schubert field here, also in central back who get his trust there. In offensive some options are possible because with Hofmann he has a good player in the back.

Eintracht Frankfurt - VfL Wolfsburg

Very interesting game between Eintracht Frankfurt who is in relegation trouble and VfL Wolfsburg who is looking for an international spot again. With a win Frankfurt can make a big step forward and minimize the pressure in the upcoming weeks a bit while Wolfsburg stands already under pressure if they do not want to lose more space to the top 4. This is a must win game for them otherwise they face some difficult weeks.

The situation was getting very worse at the end of the year for Frankfurt. They tried to solve some of the problems with new signings like Huszti, Ayhan and Fabian. It looks like that two of the guys are already in starting lineup for the game against Wolfsburg. Coach Veh was trying to find the best balance and system for his team to be prepared for the relegation battle where Eintracht is involved now. They need more compactness at to the end of last year and this is very important for Coach Veh now. The offensive power should be there with players like Huszti, Fabian, Meier, Stendera. Also Aigner can be an option there but should start from bench according to last test performances. With Zambrano back in squad he can start as central back again and allow Veh to move Russ forward into the midfield while Hasebe can play on the back wing. This should help the team to get more compactness. On what system Veh count is a little bit open but it can be 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2. Although they have still some players injured they get a very good starting eleven on the pitch and with Aigner as joker they have one weapon on bench who can bring some power in second half with his quickness.

The preparation in Portugal was very good for Wolfsburg and they had best conditions there. According to their weak offensive play to the end of last year Coach Hecking was trying to bring some new fire in their offensive part. He wants to see his team to press much higher now and bring the opponent more and more in danger but if they stand much higher it can be that they concede some goals more. This knows Hecking of course but he wants to be more active with his team now and not so sit back and wait what the opponent is doing. His aim is to reach one of the first four places and for this they are working very hard. Despite their good conditions in Portugal they had some problems too with ill or injured players like keeper Benaglio who could play only in one friendly. Also in midfield they have with Arnold and Gustavo two guys doubtful. If both must pass it is very open who plays beside Guilavogui. It looks like that Träsch has to move from the wing into the middle. This is not the best solution as he did a great job on the back wing position. In attack they have also problems with the huge injury from top striker Dost because Bendtner has not the form at the moment to replace him. In this case Hecking plans with Schürrle as attacker maybe. All three Kruse, Draxler and Schürrle showed great form and they should bring Wolfsburg on track for the second half of the Season.

Of course this is a very tricky one but with Wolfsburg having problems in all their parts of the team it can be the chance for Frankfurt to get a result here. Above all the miss from key striker Dost can be a problem because they have not real replacement for him at the moment. An additional factor can be the home crowd for Frankfurt too and Wolfsburg celebrated only 1 away win this Season against newcomer Darmstadt. So we trust and believe in Eintracht today.

PICK: Eintracht Frankfurt AHC +0,5 @ 1,83 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Bor. M'Gladbach - Borussia Dortmund

The top match of Round 18 takes place in Borussia Park between Borussia M’Gladbach and Borussia Dortmund. An absolutely top clash between these two teams where a lot of goals should be delivered. In this case it can be a very entertaining game, of course. But after the winter break it is not sure in what condition both are already. Absolutely sure is that Gladbach wants revenge for the 0-4 in first game. This time they should be much better prepared and in shape as well as in this match. Also at home they are unbeaten in 6 matches against Dortmund and have a good record too.

After an awful begin of the Season and 5 defeats in a row Coach Favre left the club and Schubert took over, with him they had an incredible run and could close the gap to the international places. They are looking forward to continue the run where they lost only 1 time with Schubert and get an international spot in the end of the Season. It should be possible because the team looked very balanced and they strength it with Hofmann from Dortmund and Hinteregger from RB Salzburg additional. It was important to do this transfers according to their big injury list with a lot of missing, additional to this list (Dominguez, Hahn, Herrmann, Jantschke and Schulz) they have 1 suspended players too. This player is key midfield and captain Xhaka. He was replaced well in last game but against Dortmund it can be much more different to find the right mix for Schubert. Absolutely open is if new signing Hofmann starts already against his old team mates or if he is on bench first while Hinteregger is for sure not an option for the starting lineup because of condition problems.

Dortmund wants to be Bayern's biggest rival but for this they have to win matches otherwise they lose more and more space to the leader. They must hope that Bayern Munich has the same weak second half what they had the last two years under Guardiola. Of course they were strong but lost some Points. All in Dortmund hopes that they can close the gap to the leader but for this they have to play a really strong second half and lose not much Points. Therefore they have to continue the run they started in preparation where they won all their friendly matches. They showed very good early form and this can be key to start well into 2016. Coach Tuchel can count on his strongest lineup for this encounter. Of course they miss some with Bender, Sahin, Schmelzer and Durm. Also with Kagawa and Ramos missed two players some training sessions this week due to illness. Both are not an option for the starting lineup because for Kagawa plays Castro who had a great preparation so far. The second one Ramas is only a bench player anyway and not so important at all. All the other top weapons are ready for Dortmund.

Hamburger SV - Bayern München

This is the opener for the second half of the Season in Germany between Hamburger SV and Bayern Munich. Both sides with different aims but nevertheless it could be an interesting and exciting one. In their own stadium Hamburg managed some surprises in recent years although they are far away from the class Bayern Munich’s or Dortmund. It is always difficult to play there for these teams but if all go the normal way they should have no chance anyway. This is not the opponent they must collect Points, it is more an additional gift if.

The start into the new year was not as expected for Hamburg. It was almost seen to the end of last year that they have some problems with the team, also result showed this too. This continues this year and their preparation for this part of the Season was not so well. A lot of problems with their training sessions according to not available players due to injury or illness. In every Session Coach Labbadia has missed at least 3 up to 8 players, what makes it not possible to train well. In all parts of the team they miss players above all in attack Lasogga is a big miss with his shoulder injury and if he can not start against Bayern it is terrible for HSV. It is also very open if Coach Labbadia risk some with his doubtful players like Lasogga or Djourou because they are needed in the upcoming matches. Manager Beiersdorfer is searching for a good and well replacement but with the financial problems they can not make big steps. He mentioned additional that he expect a really hard second half and he warned already to invest all possible energy to bring this Season to a good end. The friendlies said not all but it was a really sign with losing all against Young Boys Bern 1-2, RW Erfurt 1-2 and Ajax Amsterdam 1-3. According to the actual form and squad they have to improve a lot if they do not want to start very bad and getting more and more problems. Of course they are still 7 Points ahead of the red zone but this can be gone fast.

The league leader was in Qatar for preparation to second half of the Season. They want to win all competition because it is the last half year with Guardiola on the sideline as Coach. He left the club after this Season and the new man for Season 16/17 is Carlo Ancelotti. Nevertheless some time to go with Pep and also a lot of work to do. They were preparing some other options for the upcoming matches if in league, Cup or CL. Some of the players are back like Douglas Costa, Robben and Thiago who all worked hard for their fitness. Some of the guys are not ready and return later in February maybe like Götze, Ribery, Benatia and Bernat. Despite these missing Coach Guardiola can choose from much more as to the end of last year as the top weapon with Costa is back, also important Alaba returns. A lot of options now with Thiago for Vidal or Coman for Robben, last one could not train all Sessions because of some problems but he said that he is ready or Badstuber for Martinez. In all parts of the team they have really good replacements and with the guys above back additional it should be a hard fight for the positions. If they can overcome the opponents so easy as in first half of the Season it must be seen as they had shown some weakness in all their Seasons with Guardiola in second half. The wake up call was already there because the only friendly they played was against 2.BL team KSC and they lost 1-2 with their strongest eleven. They did really hard and played not so fresh and well as in all the games recently. In this game got Rafinha injured and he should be not available for the game against HSV as well. 

Germany 1.BL Round 18

Round 18

22.01.2016 -- 20:30  Hamburger SV - Bayern München

23.01.2016 -- 15:30  1.FC Köln - VfB Stuttgart

23.01.2016 -- 15:30  Hannover 96 - SV Darmstadt 98

23.01.2016 -- 15:30  Hertha BSC Berlin - FC Augsburg

23.01.2016 -- 15:30  1899 Hoffenheim - Bayer Leverkusen

23.01.2016 -- 15:30  FC Ingolstadt 04 - FSV Mainz 05

23.01.2016 -- 18:30  Bor. M'Gladbach - Borussia Dortmund

24.01.2016 -- 15:30  Eintracht Frankfurt - VfL Wolfsburg

24.01.2016 -- 17:30  FC Schalke 04 - Werder Bremen

We are very happy to have the German Soccer back from winter break soon. According to this we preparing already for the first games and we will be up with a few posts in the upcoming weeks. 

Have a nice time until then.