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.

1.FC Kaiserslautern - Fortuna Düsseldorf

We have two traditional team which meet each other for the last game in 2.Bundesliga this evening. Both had not the best time in the past years and also they are almost every Season behind their aim or expectation. Additional both had a different start into the Season, the home side with new Coach Korkut managed only 1 Point so far and knocked out of the Cup against 3.BL Hallescher SC what was a bit disappointment for FCK again. The next Round was expected above all that they can get more money in their pocket to buy maybe one or two players. The opponent form Düsseldorf struggled a lot last Season and was very close to become a 3.BL team but they did the job in the end and had a good start this Season anyway. With 4 Points on their side they can jump with a win on 3rd place right now, also in Cup they was successful.

With Hannover 96 had Kaiserslautern one of the top favorites to play on match day one and they started well into the match but failed in front of the goal what was the negative point of the play. On the other side they are absolutely weak in defensive right now what 4 goals against H96 showed, also against newcomer Würzburg they conceded 1 and wasted with their chances as well, in Cup against a team from 3.BL they conceded 4 as well. The weak points are for sure the defense and offense. Ok the offensive is creating some good opportunities but they are not able to get it finished. The defensive is very shaky and produce a lot of faults what make it not so easy for them. Coach Korkut has to find the right balance between these parts otherwise it would be a very hard Season.
Korkst said that he wants to minimize the mistakes and look forward for a better future. For the game today he can count on almost all of his squad, the only doubtful player is midfielder Moritz. Maybe he faces a late test if he can start or not. If Moritz gives his ok he may starts beside Frey in central midfield. This puts Ring on the bench if Korkut's decision is as expected. New signing from Freiburg Mujdza is no option for this game as he came late. Therefore Mwene starts again on this position. The other positions remain the same as in the past matches, maybe Zoua can be an option but his fitness is not at 100% after having a long break and coming late to FCK.

Fortuna's start was not the best and after 20 minutes they were 0-2 down in Sandhausen but they had the moral and were able for a big comeback to 2-2 in the end. It was a good sign for them although it was not deserved overall, even lucky. The home game against giant Stuttgart was what they are looking for. A big crowd in the stadium which push them to the limit and with their fast guys up front they can overcome all opponents in this League. With a big fight they got the win what was of course not expected. This gave them a lot of motivation for the upcoming matches and they showed the good trend already in Cup against Rostock where they walk through very easy with 3-0. Maybe Coach Funkel has find the right balance and work excellent after coming late last Season to safe Fortuna.
You think all is absolutely well in Düsseldorf, you are not right. The reserve players had a test against a lower division team which they won easy 11-0. But they got two huge injuries with Ritter and Gartner, both are out longer what the club confirm. Also central defender Madlung could not train this week due to back problems. He is a doubt right now for the game. Important Madlung can be replaced by youngster Bormuth but he has by far not the experience and peace like Madlung has. This is a big weakening for Fortuna if he must pass. Of course Funkel has some options with Bodzek as central defender as well but he is needed in central midfield after Gartner is out. The full offense is ready and with Hennings they singed an experienced player under the week who has shown his quality in this League already. This can be a really strengthening of their offensive with this guy.  Maybe Coach Funkel changes here something. Hennings and Bebou can play both in attack but also is possible that Hennings plays alone up front and Bebou comes from the wing. Nevertheless what Funkel decides, it looks like Kiesewetter is out of the starting lineup then.

Fortuna Düsseldorf - VfB Stuttgart

Both Coaches worked together some years ago.

46 times meet both teams each other but 42 of these games were in 1.Bundesliga what make clear that both teams have a long tradition. Of course both are aiming for a better future and maybe for a return into 1.Bundesliga. The home side Fortuna is far away from this after having a lot of trouble last Season and avoid relegation very close in the end while Stuttgart is the absolutely top favorite who must be beaten this Season. But almost all teams are very hot and motivated against them therefore they have to handle the pressure if they want to make the goal possible.

What they can expect saw they already in the first game against St. Pauli where they had a lot of problems above all in first half. They had to come from behind after conceding an early goal and had a lot of luck not to fall behind more as St. Pauli played great and had 2-3 more excellent attempts but wasted it. In second half Stuttgart was better in the game above all Maxim makes the difference after he came in. He was the man with the equalizer and his good actions to push the team what was rewarded with the 2-1 short before the end. 

It was almost the same to Fortuna when they had an incredible weak first half to Sandhausen and was down 0-2 after 12 minutes. Ok, they had a better second half and could equalize in the end but it was also a bit lucky as Sandhausen stop playing after the 2 goals lead.

For Fortuna Coach Funkel is clear that they are not the favorite today. He said that they have not the quality and squad like Stuttgart and therefore they must put all available power into the game if they want to have a chance here or get a positive result out of this encounter. Of course he said this in an interview but with his team he talked a bit different and let them know that if all work they can make a surprise against the top favorite of the league above all in their own stadium.

Compared to the game in Sandhausen he has some problems in defensive because with Bodzek and Madlung are two players slight injured. A bit question mark behind captain Bodzek who scored the important first goal in Sandhausen with a shot outside the box. If he must pass the first guy who replace him in midfield is Sobottka. Defender Madlung could not train to begin of the week but they have hope to get him ready for today. If all are ready Funkel should not changes to much although Bebou and Iyoha were very weak that he can think about some changes on this positions. Ngombo and Ritter can be the possible replacements here but it is not out yet if. For sure not available is Yildirim who got injured huge against Sandhausen and is out longer now.

The squad from Stuttgart is not complete so far because Coach Luhukay has still some wishes and the optimal starting lineup is not there for him right now. He has to work with the same squad he had on Monday. With Baumgartl and Großkreutz he misses still some options for the starting lineup injured. On the other side should be new signing from FC Augsburg Werner back in the squad today after missing the first match due to private reasons.

After putting on a very unexperienced young offensive line with both wings Heise and Özcan it can be that Luhukay changes on 2 of the 3 offense positions today. One of them can be Werner on the wing and also Maxim who was on bench against St. Pauli but made a lot of self advertising after he came in at half time. Both can bring a lot more power in the offensive play from VfB as the youngsters and can put the quality on a excellent level. Above all Terodde can hope to take profit from both experienced players in the box. 

But for Luhukay is more important that he has a good balanced team on the pitch and not the quality of each player. They must be a team and play like this what brings success in the end anyway.

VfB Stuttgart - FC St. Pauli

Mission Promotion !!! This will get started from VfB Stuttgart today but it would be not as easy as they expect, of course. The league is very hard and close and they are the team against all opponents maybe have a lot more motivation. Therefore they must bring all their power on the pitch from beginning on and should not underestimate the opponents. Also they are without a few starters today what makes it more difficult additionally.

Despite the lose of some top players like Harnik, Kostic and Werner VfB Stuttgart is the top favorite for promotion of all experts. But not only the experts see the club in a good position, all Coaches and supporters as well. With Luhukay they won an excellent Coach who has a lot of experience and know how to get promoted. The squad look good so far but Manager Schindelsmeiser said in an interview that they want more deepness and therefore one or two players more to sign in offense. Until end of August they have to chance to get the job done.

The starting lineup and be a big puzzle for Luhukay today. With new signed Werner they miss one of the offensive wing due to private reasons while Grgic has not the form and need still some time. Also back wing Großkreutz is not ready and should be replaced from Zimmer who came from 1.FC Kaiserslautern in summer break. The offensive left wing can take youngster Heise but this is not his normal position anyway. Moreover the starters in central back are a big question right now.

Timo Baumgartl is not ready due to injury, youngster Sama made a good preparation and can maybe start beside Sunjiic although this is not the optimal duo. With Kaminski has Coach Luhukay one in back but he has some lag.

It was seldom that St. Pauli could be successful in Stuttgart because from the last 9 matches they were unbeaten one time only. But this is not what the players interest right now. They want to be as focused and also with some self confidence as in the last friendly against Sevilla 1-2 they want to be as hard as they can for VfB. Additional this can be their chance because Stuttgart is not well rehearsed to begin what midfield player Buchtmann mentioned. This is what give them a lot of motivation and good mood before the game.

Compared to Stuttgart can St. Pauli count on the same starting lineup as in the last game against Kaiserslautern 5-2, only Maier and Thy are not available because they left the club already. Also the system can be changed from Coach Lienen to a more offense 4-4-2 with two strikers. Because with Bouhaddouz and Picault they have two very quick and agile guys up front who can make some trouble anyway. Supported can be both from Kalla and Sobota on the wings.

Dynamo Dresden - 1.FC Nürnberg

Dynamo is back !!! They managed the promotion race really excellent and find the way back into 2.Bundesliga. The stadium should be almost full today and the match is very attractive against 1.FC Nürnberg today. Dresden have the wind of promotion in their back and should be very motivated while Nürnberg maybe suffer a bit of their missed chance to get promoted after losing very close the relegation battle to Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite this bad experience they wants to start the next attempt but this time with a new Coach after Weiler left to RSC Anderlecht.

Dresden's two promotion hero's left the club during the summer break. Captain and head of the team Hefele signed a contract in England's Championship while top striker Eilers (23 goals) left to Werder Bremen where he was in former years already. Both are very hard to replace and this must be the first task for Coach Baumann to find the right mix and replacements but they had such an individual class that both can not be replaced even.
The replacement for Hefele in defensive can be new signing from FSV Frankfurt Ballas. He knows the league already and can start a new future after a disappointing last Season. For the opening position in offense they have a lot of candidates or options. With Berko or Hilßner have two new signed players the chance to start but also Kreuzer can have some hopes to be in the starting lineup on the wing today. The other positions are well manned with Stefaniak and Testroet.
In defensive part they must buy a new keeper after first choice keeper Balswich left again. They signed the best keeper from last 3.Bundesliga Season. This was Schwäbe who came from VfL Osnabrück now but overall it looks like that they have a lot of work to do if they want to have a chance to remain into 2.Bundesliga. The squad look to weak right now but of course it is still time to work on. But if the euphoria is gone after some defeats the situation is getting hard.

That Nürnberg is more as competitive in this league is out of question of course but they have lost some important players anyway. With Blum, Kerk and top attacker Füllkrug they have to suffer a lot in offensive. The three lost, other three came. With Salli who had good moments in preparation, Kempe from Darmstadt and Alushi from St. Pauli they try to compensate this. Also on the sideline they find a new Coach who knows the league very well as he was former Coach from Sandhausen and this is the logical next step in his career now.
It is not far that Nürnberg need some time to get back on track after losing such an important promotion battle to Frankfurt. Some clubs before showed it already that this can be not as easy as all mean. The clubs are KSC and Fürth who made the experience already. It is very important that Coach Schwartz find the right balance in team and also make the right decisions. With a good start all is ok but if they have to run behind from beginning on it would be a bit disappointing for them.
A big advantage maybe can be that the defensive line is the same as last Season and with the experienced keeper behind they can count on a strong defensive to begin already. The positions in midfield can be changed a bit compared to last Season. But with Behrens is a guy there who can lead the youngster Mühl. Up front is Burgstaller key player and absolutely unsaleable.

VfL Bochum - Union Berlin

The next match starts at 13 o'clock in Vonovia Ruhrstadium when VfL Bochum hosts Union Berlin. Both teams are counted to the promotion candidates but both have to replace a lot of their important players to begin. It is very important to get a good start and count on this in the upcoming matches therefore both are required to push.

After coming in as 5th last Season they are aiming for more right now but the man who makes this all possible left the club and decides to make the next step in his career. VfL top striker Simon Terodde (left to VfB Stuttgart) is to replace with his 25 goals from last Season and this can be a very difficult task for them anyway. But they have the power and attitude to be one of the top teams this Season again.
They try to handle this with different players like new signings because from Fürth they got midfield players Weiland, Stiepermann and Wurtz, from Paderborn they signed Kevin Stöger and Wydra from Bundesliga newcomer RB Leipzig came Quaschner. Also new is Canouse from 1899 Hoffenheim. With all this guys they try to build a new offense and be as dangerous as they can. It would be very interesting which guys have done the job and be in the starting lineup today. Overall after the last test friendlies and trainings it looks like only Weilandt and Stiepermann made it.
But nevertheless this can be a big advantage compared to other teams to begin as they can count on a well balanced team from last Season. The defensive line is the same from last Season and should work from beginning on. With keeper Riemann and the defending line with Perthel, Bastians, Hoogland and Celozzi they are ready and must be beaten first. Up front they count on Mlapa after hero Terodde is not there yet. He made some good performances in preparation and if he continues his way this can maybe a good replacement anyway.

The team from Berlin Köpenick is always very close to be a candidate for promotion but they could not manage this over a whole Season therefore they are coming in on the places behind the top 3. Of course, this is a big success for the club but they want more sooner or later. With the new Coach Keller they want to get the next step. With his experience and reputation they want to be more in focus. This is Keller's first job after he was fired at Schalke in October 2014.
What they can bring on the pitch this Season showed some test friendlies when they could beat Udinese 3-2 or Utrecht 3-0. This was a good statement for the league but in offensive they are maybe a bit short of options with only Hosinier as attacker and they should try to get some more options in the next weeks because they transfer window is open until end of August.
Key for them is maybe that they are well rehearsed too. With only two new guys in the starting eleven expected they can bring almost all their power from last Season on the pitch. Both new guys are well integrated in the play and should help to bring them to a good start. With striker Hosinier and back wing Pedersen they want to raise their quality. The biggest quality should be their midfield row with Kreilach, Fürstner and new captain Kroos. One of the best in this league and can be a key factor for Union's play.

1.FC Kaiserslautern - Hannover 96

This is the opening game of the 2.Bundesliga in Germany today. Two traditional teams meet each other for the start of the Season. We can expect a very interesting game and also a new start from both sides. This happen because Hannover was relegated and have to build up a new team but the aim is clear, the return into the highest league again. On the other side the home team Kaiserslautern had a very disappointing last Season what put them in a position to make some things new. Both are aiming for better times right now and it would be interesting to see which team is able to get the job done.

In his first match for the new club meet Coach Korkut his former club where he was working until April. Maybe this can be an advantage for him but the team is not the same as under him and with Stendel they changed a lot. Nevertheless it can be a lot of emotions for Korkut and also some fighting spirit to show that it was the wrong decision to fire him. He wants to beat his former club of course but for this he can not count on his strongest lineup right now. With Klich he has an important midfield player out for sure, the other two Piossek and Jacob trained less in the past days due to illness. Also striker Pryzbylko is a big doubt with a foot injury and additional he can not count on EM Hero Bödvarsson because he was sold this week. This means one striker less in squad what bring them more and more in a difficult position maybe.

According to the situation in offense he plans with Osawe as lone attacker who should be supported from the offensive midfield with Halfar, Gaus and Görtler.  The defensive midfield can be build with Ring and Moritz where both has his place in the starting lineup for sure. Behind this both starts a new defense, first one in goal with Weis who came from relegated FSV Frankfurt. With Mwene, Vucur, Ziegler and Aliji he has an absolutely new defensive line and it needs maybe some time until this is working well for FCK. 

It was the worst case for Hannover 96 last Season when they lost 23 of their 34 league games. After the big disaster they were relegated of course and have to start absolutely new now. After the awful last Season Coach Stendel got an almost new squad to work with. The focus was absolutely on the offense where they have a lot of potential now. With this new power promotion is a must for them anyway.

With Füllkrug (1.FC Nürnberg / 14 goals) and Harnik (VfB Stuttgart) they got some very good offensive players to their squad where both should help to get more power there. With Füllkug and Harnik over the wings and Sobiech up front they want to be as dangerous as they can but for today it looks like that Stendel can not count on his new offensive line. According to news is Füllkrug out with injury and this is the chance for Klaus to start. In midfield they planned with new signing Bakalorz who came from SC Paderborn but his out injured too. He will be replaced by Fossum who plays beside new captain Schmiedebach today.

In central back can Coach Stendel still count on Sane who wants to leave the club (mabe to Cologne) but the clubs could not find a solution so far. So far Sane is there he will start and lead youngster Anton beside him. After keeper Zieler left the club to England’s champion Leicester they try to find a good replacement but it was not as easy. For the match today the more experienced player Tschauner (30 years and know the league from former club St. Pauli) may starts but it is only probation. But if he is not able to organize his defensive line and give them some stability Coach Stendel will changes to one of the youngsters like Königsmann (19 years) or Radlinger (23 years). Therefore a good performance is needed to hold the position.

Eintracht Frankfurt - 1.FC Nürnberg

This is the first from two duels between both teams and it is an important one as most of the battles gives a real sign what team can go through. It was almost in every battle the same thing, the team who won the first game was in advantage before the second game and did the job then. Also in many battles won the team from 1.Bundesliga against 2.Bundesliga in two matches but sometimes surprises happened of course. Both do not like each other much and the fans are big rivals therefore we can only hope that this is an silent game between both but the atmosphere can be very hot anyway. Maybe Nürnberg wants the revenge for 99 where they got relegated due to a 1-2 against Freiburg at home and Frankfurt had to win high against Kaiserslautern what was the case with 5-1. This time can be turned things around for FCN. Also the financial aspect is very important for both, Frankfurt has to move the budget down in case of relegation while Nürnberg is in a need of additional money according to their difficult financial situation. If they can not reach the goal promotion they must sell some of their top players.

It was very close for Frankfurt above all after they changed the Coach as with Kovac for Veh success was not there and he got only 3 Points from 5 matches what many experts let them be relegated. But they could turn things around and won to Mainz, Darmstadt and Dortmund and got a real final game against Bremen which was lost. But overall they did the job and get the next chance to be in 1.Bundesliga for next Season again. Despite the late goal against them they have to look forward and should be positive to get the job done against Nürnberg.

Compared to the last game in Bremen where they was very defensive minded is Frankfurt expected to be more offensive this time. For this reason some changes are possible above all Huszti should be back in starting eleven after his suspension, he can replace defensive player Ignovski. He plays with Hasebe in central midfield then where he takes offense part and bring more power in their offensive play. In offensive part can Ben Hatira move from the middle to the wing and also up front he can count on two attacker as only on Seferovic as in Bremen. Beside him is Castagnios an option but it would be no surprise if hero Meier starts from beginning on after his long injury time.

It was sure that Nürnberg come in as third after having an incredible run with 18 unbeaten games and of course they had the hope to enter second place and direct promotion but after their winning streak was over he lost 3 of the following 4 matches. This knock them out in the race of place 2 and they have to look forward to be well prepared now to make the aim reality. The self confidence should be there after two wins to St. Pauli and Paderborn in the last League games.

In the last game against bottom side Paderborn gave Coach Weiler some players some rest like Burgstaller, Margreiter and Behrens but all are expected to stand in the starting lineup again today. They are coming to Frankfurt with almost all their players, only Polak, Erras and Mössmer are out and injured for long time now. The rest are ready what gives him a lot to choose but he said already that 9 of the 11 starters are already safe. Only on 2 Positions he is thinking about ….. Very important is the return of veteran Schäfer into the goal because he has more coolness and experience and gave the defensive line more stability as Rakovsky do or did. In front of him are Brecko, Margreiter, Bulthuis and Sepsi safe. In central midfield with Behrens and Möhwald are also two safe but with Petrak and Leipold he has to in back. Maybe he changes here a bit. According to the performance of some players on the wing line Gislason, Blum or Stieber Leibold is the man there of course. One of the mentioned three gets a place in starting lineup because Kerk is not 100% ready and only on bench then. Up front we have the two dangerous players with fighter Burgstaller and Goalgetter Füllkrug.

Eintracht Braunschweig - Fortuna Düsseldorf

It was a long and disappointing Season for Braunschweig so far but in the last games they seems on a good way to bring this to a good end. With two wins in a row they can close the Season with a win today what would be very important for them according to the TV money they get then. If they win they can overcome Kaiserslautern in this ranking and get 500.000 Euro more what is a huge amount for them. Fortuna on the other side made the important step against rival FSV Frankfurt and have now 3 Points advantage to the red zone and also plus 6 goals what is a very save position right now. If they want to be absolutely sure about the remaining in 2.Bundesliga they need one Point but overall the situation is clear and no one doubt that they can be cached form the teams behind. MSV plays RB Leipzig and FSV Frankfurt plays 1860 Munich but FSV has 10 goals difference to Fortuna.

It was a very hard and crazy Season for Braunschweig with a lot of problems above all in their defensive part they had a lot of injured players what made Coach Lieberknecht a lot of work to find always a new lineup in defensive. They had to play some matches without Baffo, Correia, Decarli, Afosu Ayeh and Sauer what would be the case again today. But they were able to handle this in the last games and can look forward to a good end and celebrating with their fans today. The uptrend is seen and they scored 3 goals in both last games what is much for Braunschweig if you take a look on the results. The offensive is working very well at the moment and with Holtmann they have an incredible inform player on the wing. He can make the difference here with his fast actions despite the defensive line is build by a lot of players which is not their part normally. But the guys did a good job and they help the team where they can.

In the winter break was Kurz the new head coach for Fortuna and they hope to have better times as at least but he was sucked after 7 games without any success. For him Funkel is the man on the sideline an experienced Coach who has the skills in this situation. The start was good with him and a win against Kaiserslautern but the following matches he was also not able to bring this team forward and they got only 2 Points but the last game to rival FSV was won 1-0 and this was maybe the key match and the game where they were saved now.
Despite the win Coach Funkel wants to changes on a lot of position, first one is on the wing where Bellinghausen is out. For him can play Bebou or Bolly but they are also possible as back wing because Mavrias could not convince against FSV again. On the other back wing move Schauerte in the starting lineup after illness where Koch is out then. In offensive they have with Pohjanpalo an attacker back who was missed in last game but Demirbay made the job there. He can move back in the midfield and bring some rotation there too. Fink move back and plays beside Bodzek in central midfield while Gartner is on bench.

Both teams with some problems and missing players today. But overall it is very hard to play in Braunschweig for all the teams because the fans and the atmosphere is great there and push the home side very well. According to the latest run it is more as possible that they can walk on above all the pressure is gone in Düsseldorf. They are almost save, they should only not lose to high ..... What the teams are doing if the pressure is gone saw we yesterday, they sit back and play only on low level. We expect Braunschweig at home to push and bring Fortuna in danger.

PICK: Eintracht Braunschweig AHC -0,25 @ 1,90 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

FC Bayern München - Hannover 96

This is the last home game for Bayern Munich before they can celebrate the championship with their fans. They had an incredible good season despite the third knock out in the champions league semi final in a row. Normally Coach Guardiola was signed to bring this title home to Munich but he was not able to beat a spanish team in three attempts. But overall he had a excellent time in Munich with a lot of success and the new style of play is seen very well. Before the league doors close for him he has to bring his team well prepared on the pitch to celebrate the last home game with an excellent game against relegated Hannover. Also they should hold the concentration high according to the important Cup Final in one week against rival Borussia Dortmund. For this he will count on his strongest lineup and allow his top guys a good rhythm. Also they can play for their striker Lewandowski who has scored 29 goals so far and he wants to break 30 this Season what is an incredible number and never reached in the last years. Also he is the first none German who can reached this special number.

Hannover comes to Munich already relegated and has to play for nothing, only for a good result what was not always the case in the last years if they were there. No they got almost every game a big pounding from Bayern. The play from Munich is to fast for Hannover and they were not able to defend this well. Therefore it is not sure if new Coach Stendel is able to find the right mix and balance for this game also if the motivation is gone. Despite the situation they should try to bring this match to a good end but the pressure can be very high over the 90 minutes and this can be one of the hardest matches for them this Season. In the last 8 matches with Bayern Munich they scored only 2 goals and conceded incredible 31 what says all of the dominance from Bayern. Of course under Stendel they are doing better but this is almost impossible for them to get the job done.

This match is very clear, I am sure that Bayern wants to celebrate with a great win the title. Also with some goals from Lewandowski, therefore they press from beginning on and bring H96 in really danger. The goals will come for sure here as they did in several games before against Hannover and they won always with a high margin. They love to play against this team and they come to an exactly good moment to Munich.

PICK: Bayern München AHC -2,75 @ 1,86 (3 Units / Flat Stake)
Special PICK: Lewandowski to score anytime

1899 Hoffenheim - FC Schalke 04

Statistic:

- This team meet each other 15 times and it is very even so far (5-4-6 for 1899).
- S04 was 7 times in Hoffenheim and they could never win there (0-4-3).
- Against no other club they have such a bad run as in Hoffenheim till now.
- Only the top clubs collected more Points from the last 13 Rounds as Hoffenheim 23.
- With Nagelsmann on the sideline they are much more effective and successful as before.
- 1899 was able to bring 24 Points on their side 2016, 2 more as Schalke did so far.
- Schalke was not able to keep a clean sheet in their last 10 league games.
- The last one was in February to Frankfurt 0-0. Such a run happened at least 2004.

With Nagelsmann as head coach 1899 has found the right man to lead this team despite his young age. He has a lot of power although the experience is not there but he is working hard and has some good skills in his training work. The team is doing by far a better second half of the Season as to begin where they got only 13 Points, under Nagelsmann they were able to be 5. in the second part of the season. This says all and the team is following him very well what is seen in success. They are already save and they can go out and play relaxed but with a lot of passion and celebrate with their fans the last game of the Season. They have all their key players ready, so no excuses here.

It was an average Season for Schalke so far but they have reach one of their goals already. They are sure for an international spot so far. Although they wanted much more above all the Champions League was their big aim but they missed this target. They can be happy with this above all after some weak performances they do the job. All is possible for them form place 5 to 7. With a draw they maybe climb one place up as Mainz and Hertha which both above them are playing each other. It could be important to get one of the places above them as they do not have to start so early in qualification for Euro League. With Goretzka they miss one midfield player who started recently but he can be replaced from Geis this time.

Both teams should be very even in their class at the moment and 1899 at home can always be a difficult team to play although they play for nothing. Nevertheless Nagelsmann is ambitious and he wants to win this one of course. S04 has something to play for and must be take the active part in this game what can be dangerous for them above all if Hoffenheim brings their fast offensive players in running. This can hurt them badly. We love the matchup and the HC on our side here.

PICK: 1899 Hoffenheim AHC +0,25 @ 1,95 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

VfL Wolfsburg - VfB Stuttgart

The Season is already gone for Wolfsburg but they have not won in the last 3 home games what put them under additional pressure for this game despite they play for nothing. This can not be their real target to reach a midfield place. Both manager Allofs and Coach Hecking are not pleased with the outcome and the Season, all the players have to improve their level and ask themselves what they can do better for the next Season. After coming in as second last Season they had a huge downtrend this Season above all away from home they won not much and this was maybe the reason why they missed an international spot. At home they lost only 3 matches so far and they had some really strong games there what should make it possible to get a win in the last game. All players are monitored if they are the right one for Wolfsburg next Season. Coach Hecking and Manager Allofs put the level high and they want to see a good performance and also a win.

After 39 years in Bundesliga the worst case is almost there for VfB Stuttgart. They had a good run after Kramny took over and pushed VfB on the right way but the last games were all without any fire above all the big miss in midfield with fighter Die is a big blow for them. Some other important players are not fully fit and plays with slight injuries what help the team not much. Therefore the results are all against them and only with a win they can have some hope to reach place 16 and two relegation matches against the 3 rd from 2.Bundesliga. But for this Bremen must lose otherwise Stuttgart has no chance anymore, although if Bremen plays draw and Stuttgart win with a very high margin they can overcome Bremen but this is almost impossible. So only a lose from Bremen hold them in the race. A very hard scenario for Stuttgart and what the fans are thinking about was seen in the last home game where they attack the pitch after the match was over. Also they attacked some of the players. The nerves are not the best there anyway and how should they be handled from the players on the pitch additional. Stuttgart travels to Wolfsburg with almost full squad only Sunjic suspended, Serey Die injured and Großkreutz injured again are not ready. 

The pressure is clear on Stuttgart’s side and Wolfsburg can sit back and play a normal game at home what is maybe their preferred style if they can play on counter with their fast offensive players. If Stuttgart has to open in the end of the game it can be that Wolfsburg overcome them easy. I have my doubts that Stuttgart can celebrate the same wonder as last Season when they won the important game against Paderborn and was saved then. This time we have to say good bye for a traditional BL team.

PICK: VfL Wolfsburg AHC 0 @ 1,78 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Saturday 1.Bundesliga update

Werder Bremen - Eintracht Frankfurt

- Frankfurt lost only 1 of the last 11 matches against Werder, at Round 31 0-1 last Season.
- They are 6-4-1 in this period against Bremen and of course want to continue the run.
- Frankfurt needs only a draw here while Bremen has to win if they want to overcome Frankfurt.
- If Stuttgart does not win in Wolfsburg both Bremen and Frankfurt can not be relegated directly.
- This is only the case because Stuttgart -23, Bremen -16 and Frankfurt -17 goals.
- It is almost the same run from Frankfurt since they managed the biggest surprise 98/98.
- They won 98/99 also the last 4 matches and got saved .... 3 in a row they have already managed.
- Bremen kept the first clean sheet this Season and collected 7 Points out of the last 4 games.


FSV Mainz 05 - Hertha BSC Berlin

- For FSV a draw would be enough to be directly qualified for the Euro League.
- On the other side Hertha need a win to overcome Mainz and do the same job.
- In the last 7 matches between these two clubs in Mainz, Hertha had the better outcome (3-3-1).
- This is the weakest number from Mainz against a team who played at least 2 times there.
- Hertha lost all their last 4 road games and showed a big downtrend recently.
- Hertha was always better in the first half of the Season and in second half they are much weaker.
- Berlin lost 5 of their last 6 last Season games. The only win was 2012 with 3-1 to 1899.
- In BL history lost Berlin 10 of their last 13 matches of the Season (2-1-10).


Borussia Dortmund - 1.FC Köln

- Cologne was able to get 7 of 9 possible Points against Dortmund from the last 3 games.
- Coach Stöger is actual unbeaten against Dortmund so far.
- Before this run they lost all 8 matches to Dortmund.
- But in Dortmund is Cologne waiting since 25 years for a win. The last one was 1991 2-1.
- Since this win they lost 14 times and got 2 draws what is not the best outcome so far.
- Also they are waiting since 440 minutes to score a goal in Dortmund.
- Cologne has the change to win both matches against BvB this Season. They are the only one then.
- FC is playing his best Season since 2000/01 when they managed 45 Points, 42 now.
- Dortmund won 18 of their 20 BL home matches and scored 57 goals, an average from 2,9.
- The last team who was able to win in Dortmund was Bayern in April 2015 with 1-0.

Eintracht Braunschweig - 1.FC Nürnberg

The situation is very clear for Nürnberg, if they want to have a chance to get promoted directly they must win all of their last 3 matches and hope that Leipzig is not able to do the job. But with 4 Points less to Leipzig it is almost impossible that this can be turned in their favor in only 3 matches. The home side plays an average Season and have nothing to play for only for a good place what is important for the budget. What means the players can not sit back because this cost a lot of money for the club.

In Braunschweig they are not very pleased with the Season and they hope that the problems will be solved for the next one. From the last 3 matches they were able to take the lead twice with 2-0 against Heidenheim and Freiburg but were not able to get the job done and played only draw in the end. Also last game to bottom team 1860 they lost 0-1 what was a big disappointment for them anyway.

With Baffo and Correia they have both main defenders out with injured and this for long time now. Coach Lieberknecht has to count on Decarli and Kijewski again and he can not play his preferred system in defensive. But with Reichel returns an important player on the wing and allow Lieberknecht to move Boland forward into the midfield where he can create much more and help the team to get more dangerous. It is absolutely needed as with Matuschyk and Schönfeld they had two players without any idea and form. The next one Kumbela could not convince additional but he maybe remain in the starting eleven although with Ademi and Tietz they have some in back. On the other side can be also some changes with Sauer plays on the wing and Hochscheidt move forward into the midfield. This can be a good option too to bring more power on the pitch in offensive.

After 18 unbeaten games and a clean sheet at home won underdog MSV Duisburg who had not a single away win so far in Nürnberg. This defeat was something like a big knock out for them and they lost in Karlsruhe again although they lead for long time. It looks like this continues because against Union they were down 0-2 to half time but they found a way to get back on track and showed their real strength with scoring 6 goals in 45 Minutes what let them save third place.
Before the last game against Union has Coach Weiler a really great idea with moving Leibold from the wing into the middle as he was one of best players on the pitch and made a great game. He helps to turn this game around for Nürnberg. For Leibold was Petrak on bench and the open position took Gislason and started since Round 9 from beginning on and was also one of the winner. In this case it is not expected that Coach Weiler changes anything on his successful team from last weekend although he has with Stieber and Petrak two very good options on bench, of course.

Greuther Fürth - FC Heidenheim

Both teams are already safe and they play for nothing, only for a good place and the TV budget for next Season. Therefore not an uninteresting aspect because both teams need money to work a bit more relaxed with transfers and other things. In an interview said both Coaches that they take this match very serious and want to hold the concentration high until the end of the Season.

After starting with a defeat against St. Pauli into the new year Fürth made a good job and they could win 5 of the 10 matches while losing only to top teams Nürnberg and Freiburg very unlucky. Last weekend they lost first time against a lower placed team from Bielefeld 2-4. But overall they can look back to a very good Season so far and they are very pleased with the team at the moment.

Compared to the excellent win to Düsseldorf Coach Ruthenbeck made some changes before the game in Bielefeld but both Hirsch and Wurtz disappointed what brings him in  the next difficult positon as he has to changes again here. Very clear is the return from Gjasula who is back from suspension and should help the team as creative player, of course. If he plays in central midfield or more offensive is open. Maybe with Hofmann in central midfield while Stiepermann can move to the wing. In this case Berisha move into the attack and Wurtz can be replaced by Vukusic.

Almost the same situation in Heidenheim, they are very hard to play and also to beat. With only 2 defeats 2016 they are a team with a lot of potential and strength. They may have been placed much better if they had not so many draws (6) what is maybe one of their biggest problems. The last two home games were draws to Braunschweig and Paderborn while they lost a big unlucky to Union 0-1 last weekend. After they reached their goal from 40 Points Coach Schmidt was talking about more and he is not pleased with the 9. Place in the end. He wants to keep the motivation high and he allows no neglectfulness from his team. The players should be focused on the last game otherwise they are on bench or out of the squad.

According to the last game attacker Finne can lose his place in starting lineup to Morabit or youngster Starke. It is very open how he decides. One of these guys plays beside Thomalla in attack, of course. Both second keeper Müller and defender Göhlert who wants to finish his carrer as Profi have the word from Coach that they starts in one of the last 3 games but it is not out yet. Despite the situation it is open if this happen in Fürth already.

FC Augsburg - 1.FC Köln

One of the biggest surprise teams last Season was of course FC Augsburg. They were able to play their best Season ever in club history and got rewarded with an European Spot. In these European games they made a good job and knocked out only against Liverpool who was very close anyway. I said it already in some previews that this additional games cost a lot of energy which is missing in League games and smaller clubs can not handle this anyway. All, if Mainz, Freiburg, Frankfurt, Aachen and so on had a lot of problems after such a good Season and Augsburg has it too and has it already. Of course they are 5 Points ahead of the red zone but this is only due to their good run of 3 wins in a row what put them out of the big trouble. Overall they are very close to avoid the worst case but for this they need at least 1 win from the last 3 matches. Maybe a draw can be enough too, as the other teams behind them play against each other in the upcoming weeks as well. Nevertheless Coach Weinzierl is doing a great job and is loved in Augsburg but he is aiming for a new challenge. Maybe he leaves the club at the end of the Season despite a contract. Before this happen they have to do the work and bring it to a successful end. The team looked much better lately and they have the power and motivation back. With captain Verhagh miss they an important key player on the wing.

After Cologne was promoted they are going step by step and this is the right way for success. Last Season they had some problems until the end but this time they are already safe 3 Rounds before the Season ends. Coach Stöger and Manager Schmadtke did a great job so far but they want more of course. The Season has not end and they are trying to put some pressure on the teams above them because with a win they can get very close to an European Spot. Despite the 5 Points difference they are motivated enough to walk on because they have nothing to lose. They want to be as serious as they can and bring the best lineup on the pitch. No experiments for the last 3 games as Stöger said. He can count on almost all players, the only defender Mavraj is not ready to train and therefore a big doubt for the game. But with Heintz returns a central defender, so that this should be not the biggest problem at all. The offense is on fire scoring 3 and 4 in the last two games what is much for Cologne who has normally problems to score more as 2 in a game. 

Both teams are on fire at the moment and maybe on the same level. What I see for a bit different is that Augsburg loves more if they can play against teams who are more active as Cologne is. They must go out and be active while Cologne can sit back and go for their fast counter attacks what brings them in a very good position in my eyes. This can be key here and decide the game. For this reason we are going with the HC on our side and Cologne this time.

PICK: 1.FC Köln AHC +0,25 @ 1,89 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

FSV Frankfurt - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

This encounter has a lot of explosiveness, not from FCK side because they were able to save them already after a few weeks with a lot of danger potential, no  more from FSV side who sit 1 Point above the red zone and if they continue the weak home performances they getting really in danger. The opponent from FSV has the chance to come into the match more relaxed and without any pressure and if they have some good results in the last 3 matches they can climb up a bit while FSV has to look forward to avoid to be relegated in the end. Therefore this match becomes absolutely important for them. After a long time they were not able to win at home and if this continues they get a really relegation encounter at Round 34 when 1860 arrives there.

The team from Frankfurt was in relegation trouble last Season too and saved them only with the last match. After this hard time for the club they came out and started very well with collecting 19 Points out of the first 10 matches but fall back to old style and were not able to collect more as 10 Points in the last 19 Rounds. This put them back in the same situation as they had last Season already. With the last shot and sucking Coach Oral they want to bring the momentum back to their side but new Coach Götz was not able to turn things around so far. Above all at home they are absolutely weak. With losing the last 2 against direct rivals they are getting more and more in danger.

The new Coach tried some in his first two matches but ha not found the right mix so far. Therefore changes are possible for this match again. One important player can give his comeback with Perdedaj but it is not sure yet. If he can start he can help the team with his fighting spirit very well while Yann move on bench after his weak performance against Sandhausen. Also Engels can hope to start after having some good actions after coming into the match in Sandhausen. Also in offensive can Götz count on the experienced attacker Kapllani who was an important key factor last Season already.

After a very bad run between Round 23 and 27 with 5 defeats was Kaiserslautern able to save them with 3 good results lately. They won to Sandhausen 2-0, got a 0-0 draw to KSC, won the important encounter in Bielefeld 1-0 and against giant Leipzig 1-1 on Monday. This streak was key that they were not involved in the relegation fight. It seems additional that they found the form to the right time before the Season ends.

Coach Fünfstück allowed the same starting lineup who won in Bielefeld to start againt Leipzig. They disappointed him not and therefore he was very happy with his team. According to the good performances it is not so far that he field the same lineup again. The only he may think a bit can be striker Przybylko who had some very good moments and made some self advertising with 2 goals to move back into start eleven again. It is possible above all after Zimmer got ill these days and one position is open now. In this case Ring can move on the wing and plays the positon from Zimmer while Przybylko plays beside Bödvarsson in attack.

When we compare the teams and actual form the trend is really on Kaiserslautern but why trust teams who has nothing to play for at the moment. The only they have to play is the positon and budget for next Season. FSV plays for their living in 2.Bundesliga and this should be a more and better motivation. Teams who has not aim they are doing less and this can FSV not do in their situation right now. Also they were close to get something from the last game in Sandhausen but the referee did not reward them 1 or 2 penalties from these was one absolutely clear. This should be an additional motivation for them to show that they are able to bring this to a good end despite disadvantage. With losing 3 in a row we are sure that they stop the negative run and do not lose this won again.

PICK: FSV Frankfurt AHC 0 @ 2,02 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

MSV Duisburg - 1.FC Kaiserslautern

The West-Derby is very important for both sides as they are big involved in relegation battle. Both teams are fighting to remain in 2.Bundesliga while MSV is in a must win situation to close the gap to the other 2 teams above Paderborn and 1860 München and hold the aim alive. On the other side is Düsseldorf a big up of the red zone and can go into this game more relaxed and without big pressure. But overall they have to look forward and take an eye on the other teams like Paderborn, 1860 München and FSV Frankfurt because as the results are against them they can fall down and get really in danger. Therefore we can expect an interesting game with a big fight.

After only 1 Point after 4 matches after the winter break MSV Duisburg was almost relegated and it looks like that they have no chance anymore but they never gave up and fight back that they were able to close the gap to 3 Points to the teams above. With the surprise win in Nürnberg they got a lot of hope back but last weekend they were not able to manage the next surprise to leader Freiburg and lost deserved 0-3. Therefore this direct duel with Düsseldorf become very important for them. 

It was no surprise that Coach Gruev send out the same team against Freiburg which won to 1860 but this time he has to change according to the suspension from Hajri. The miss can be compensate with Bajic who is back from illness and absolutely ready again. He got some minutes in Freiburg already and should be hot to start. More changes are maybe not the case as the alternatives are less although the offensive play is very harmless from MSV lately. Despite this big problems Bröker comes from bench and should bring from fresh blood in.

Fortuna changes the Coach in the winter break and they had a lot of hope in Kurz but he could not bring the team back on track and after a losing run from 4 matches he was sucked. In relegation battle they trust now an experienced Coach like Funkel. He saved a lot of teams already and he knows what he has to do to avoid the worst case. He started well with a 4-3 win to Kaiserslautern but in the last 4 matches they are winless and got only 2 Points on their side what let them remain in a danger position. 

After the weakest performance against Fürth 1-3 he changed the starting lineup on 5 positions what lead to a much better performance and a good result to St. Pauli 1-1. If he count on the same eleven it is very open as with Bodzek and Fink return two experienced players which were not available to due suspension and injury against St. Pauli. Despite the good play from Sobotta and Gartner in central midfield it is very possible that both veterans return and give the team more stability. The other positions should remain unchanged according to the last performance.

This encounter includes a lot and the future of both teams stands in doubt what makes it so interesting. But overall if we compare both squads we see some advantage for Düsseldorf who knows the situation much more from past years as MSV. Also the quality is on Fortuna’s side although both sides has some problems with the offensive play. Nevertheless players like Demirbay, Pohjanpalo or Sararer can make the difference for Fortuna. We trust and believe in them and got with the HC on our side, a draw is more as possible for them here.

PICK: Fortuna Düsseldorf AHC +0,25 @ 1,76 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

Germany 1.Bundesliga Satruday matches

Hertha BSC Berlin - Bayern München

- Hertha could win only 1 of the last 24 matches to Bayern Munich (1-5-18).
- This was in February 2009 with 2-1. All the last 9 matches were lost.
- Bayern lost only 1 from the last 15 league matches, to Gladbach 1-3 in December.
- Since 8 matches they are unbeaten on the road (6-2-0).
- Hertha has not lost since 10 home games (6-4-0), last time to Gladbach 1-4 in October.
- This was the only defeat in the last 16 home games for them.
- Since Dardai is on the sideline Hertha conceded the first time in 3 matches 2 goals or more.
- On the other side Bayern conceded only 1 goal in the last 6 matches.
- Shots on goal, Hertha 285 what is the weakest amount, Bayern Munich 581.



VfB Stuttgart - Borussia Dortmund

- Since 11 matches is Stuttgart waiting for a win against Dortmund (0-5-6).
- Dortmund won 6 of their last 7 matches against Stuttgart and can advance the streak to 4 wins in a row.
- Dortmund scored incredible 23 goals in their last 7 matches what is an average from 3,3.
- No team got less Points in the last 5 matches as Stuttgart, only two.
- They could win only 1 of the last 9 matches (1-3-5). The derby to 1899 with 5-1 at home.
- BvB  with a new record as they have 71 Points after 30 match days what they never reached before.
- Dortmund is the best team in second half of the Season with 10 wins and 3 draws.



VfL Wolfsburg - FC Augsburg

- Wolfsburg could only win 2 of the 9 games with Augsburg. Only against Bayern they are weaker.
- In these 9 matches with FCA scored Wolfsburg only 6 goals, what is incredible less for their potential.
- After winning twice recently FCA got some hope back in relegation battle.
- In the last 4 matches in first half of the Season they were able to collect 10 Points out of it.
- This maybe let them hope to stay away from the relegation battle in the next weeks.
- Additional they were able to score in every last 11 BL matches what is new club record for them.
- Wolfsburg is almost out of the race to Europe, but they may have a little bit of hope.

FC Schalke 04 - Borussia Dortmund

This is a big derby and both teams do not like each other, therefore a big fight is expected but after Bayern Munich winning yesterday and Borussia Dortmund has an important EL game ahead against Liverpool on Thursday Coach Tuchel is rotating a lot. They have no Reus, Aubameyang, Micky, Gündogan in the starting eleven. This is a bit too much in my eyes and they can not replace these guys even. Additional they had an very hard match on last Thursday what costs a lot of energy too. They may are not the most fresh side this time.

On the other side Schalke is doing a great at home in the last matches and they could prepare the whole week for this game what is important. They can load up their batteries and come into these game with all they power. With fresh legs they should be ahead of a B-Team from Dortmund today. Coach Breitenreiter has all his guns ready and can choose from all. This is a big plus additional for them.

We are very pleased with the lineup from Schalke and can only see a winner here. Let’s go S04 !!!

PICK: FC Schalke 04 AHC 0 @ 2,67 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

1.FC Nürnberg - MSV Duisburg

This is a match between the top and the bottom of the table while we have a big class difference here too. Nürnberg at home do a great Season with 9-5-0 while MSV on the road has only got 5 Points with record 0-5-9. Nürnberg is very close to get back to 1.Bundesliga after two years in 2.Bundesliga now but for this they have to walk on and continue their good streak from 18 unbeaten matches in a row while MSV is almost relegated according to their bad results this Season. The team was promoted last Season to 2.Bundesliga again but they must go down after only one year again. Very frustrating for such a traditional club like MSV.

Nürnberg started a great run but they are always 3 Points behind the top two teams and they want to climb at least one place up if they get promoted directly. They do not want to have the two relegation games against the 16. of the 1.Bundesliga. For this reason they should hold the pressure high and try to win as much as they can. With a win today against bottom side MSV they can climb up to 2. place and have to wait ifRB Leipzig is able to bounce back in Düsseldorf tomorrow.
Nevertheless they have to concentrate them on their games and walk on, they are coming into this game with 6 wins in a row. Not all were deserved and they had luck too but this is not important anyway, it counts only today. Coach Weiler has no reason to changes his successful team from last weekend. The only position he maybe can be thinking a bit is the offensive midfield with Kerk who got injured last weekend but is ready today. He was replaced by Blum who scored twice and can be a real options for the starting lineup maybe.

MSV is looking forward and the hope is still there although if you win only 1 of the last 12 matches you can not start a streak of 6 winning games to the end of the Season. If they win all the last games it may is too less anyway to avoid relegation. In this case they have to bring this Season to a good end and be a good opponent for the upcoming matches despite some of the teams are really playing for something. They had a run of 4 unbeaten games but won only 1 of these recently and the defeat to Heidenheim was a big knock out for them. Of course they believe still in them but it is not for 100%.
Coach Gruev tries to bring the best possible lineup on the pitch. On central midfield is Holland back and should replace Albutat there. Poggenburg played on the back wing last weekend without success what let Gruev think to move Wolze back again and allow Broker, Klotz or Janjic to hope for the offensive position. Up front is Obinna a safe starter but beside him they have none. Therefore a trio can make them hopes to be the partner of the Nigerian player.

Overall this should be a clear thing for the absolutely in form team from Nürnberg. Their amazing run should continue against a bottom side what normally has nothing to loss but should be to weak to beat this FCN.

PICK: 1.FC Nürnberg AHC -1 @ 1,75 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

SC Freiburg - FC St. Pauli

This encounter between the 1. and the 4. are no real top match according to the table has St. Pauli already 13 Points to leader Freiburg. This is too much 6 Rounds before the Season ends. The team from Hamburg could not hold the pressure high in the last weeks where they could win only 1 from 4 games and let them move away. The top 3 are to strong and they were winning too much in the last weeks to hold the gap as close as they can.

The team from Coach Streich running from win to win and they having almost the same great run as Nürnberg with 7 wins in a row. Despite the good run they can not take advantage as the rivals are winning and winning too. Maybe this can be a very close promotion fight until the Season ends. The last win to Fürth 3-2 on monday was a bit of luck as too many mistakes of Fürth allow them to score 3 easy goals and their defensive work was not the best anyway.
He was not very pleased with the performance and let the players feel this in training. He has to try something because with Höfler he has to replace the central midfield player suspended today. Some options are there with Stanko what means not more changes. If he count on Stenzel or Frantz there he has to bring a new central back into the team what let Torrejon or Mudzja moves in. Also in offensive he has to think about Niederlechner, Petersen and Philipp. Only 2 of the 3 guys are on the pitch, one of them sit on bench.

St. Pauli had the aim to hold the promotion race as open as they can but the last 0-0 to Union Berlin was a big disappointment for them and they are out for the race now. Nevertheless they played a great Season and they had not the trouble as last Season what is a big success anyway. Coach Lienen can be very pleased with his team and go into the last matches very relaxed. Maybe if the pressure is gone the team can show a better side as in the last games. But of course they play for important money because they get much more if their are coming in as 4. as some places down. The TV budget is also important for them above all for a club with less money.
The last lineup was what Lienen prefer last weekend but this time he has to replace some again. With Rzatkowski he has an guy with flue out and he travelled not with the team to Freiburg. Maier can be the first choice from Lienen here. In an interview mentioned Lienen also that they do not want to play a defensive minded system, no they want to be active and go for fast counter attacks to hurt SCF.

Again, the top team is walking on and showing great form while St. Pauli is on a downtrend and count not hold the gap close. Also they are not a team who can score much what can be a big problem against a team who has so much offensive power. Therefore the home side should win this one.

PICK: SC Freiburg AHC -1 @ 1,95 (3 Units / Flat Stake)

FC Ingolstadt 04 - Bor. M'Gladbach

This is a very interesting encounter above all if we take a look back to last weekend. Both teams showed a really great performance and won comfortable. Ingolstadt at home to Schalke with 3-0 were they having one of the best performances of the Season while Gladbach celebrated an absolutely amazing 5-0 against third placed team from Berlin one day later. It was working well for both and now they face each other what can be a nice match anyway.

The newcomer was not only a surprise to begin of the Season, no they were able to continue the way they play also in second part of the Season. This is maybe one of the key facts that they can stay away from relegation battle. Other teams before them like Braunschweig, Fürth and Paderborn can hold the level only for a half of the Season and get relegated then. For Ingolstadt is this scenario far away because of 36 Points on their side already and if they can grab 4 Points out of the last 6 matches they are safe of course. Nevertheless of their good position right now they want to bring this Season to a successful end and want to use their good form to get safe as far as they can. Coach Hasenhüttl has find the right mix and the team is following and working with him very well. Success proved him right also that they can expand their scoring average along with their defensive work. In almost all numbers they are doing better compared to the first half of the Season what is a real indicator that they have done the next step in their development.

After winning the important match to Hertha BSC on Sunday Gladbach is looking forward to reach one of the Champions League spots. The chance is back and they were very happy to defeat one of the top placed teams after having a lot of problems to win against teams from the top this Season. This important win gave them additional boost and motivation for the upcoming matches. Also Coach Schubert has some more options as many of the injured players are back in squad. He can count on Raffael again this time after have to replace him recently. This bring them in some danger as he has a lot to choose in offensive as the guys on pitch on Sunday did a great job. Therefore it is very open in he wants to change his starting lineup for Ingolstadt or allow all the guys to show the skills again. In this case Raffael is on bench first. But overall this player is very important for Gladbach and can decide a match, of course. The only negative thing is the weak away performance from Gladbach were they could not win in 7 attempts lately. From these 7 matches they collect only 2 Points while losing 5 times. The last away win was against Hertha 4-1 on 31.10.2015. A long time for a team who is looking to grab an European spot.

The home side is absolutely on fire in their stadium with 6 unbeaten matches in row while Gladbach coming to Ingolstadt without a win in 7 road games. Both teams running different but Gladbach has the much better potential and also a lot of bad luck against Schalke two weeks ago too. I am really pleased with the matchup and also trust Gladbach this time because they do not lose the third time in a row.  

PICK: Bor. M'Gladbach AHC -0,25 @ 1,98 (3 Units / Flat Stake)