SV Darmstadt 98 will be looking to recover from back-to-back defeats as they face VfL Bochum in a highly anticipated Bundesliga match on Friday night.
Match Preview
Despite not winning any of their first nine matches, Bochum’s five draws have kept them out of the automatic relegation zone.
Darmstadt, on the other hand, suffered an embarrassing 8-0 loss against reigning champions Bayern Munich in their previous game.
Although it’s common for German teams to be defeated by Bayern, the fact that the Bavarians were reduced to 10 men after just four minutes made the defeat even more concerning.
Darmstadt also had two players sent off during the match, further contributing to their downfall.
With a one-man advantage, Bayern scored all eight of their goals in the second half, including a remarkable long-range strike by England striker Harry Kane.
The match saw Bayern register a total of 16 shots on target, highlighting Darmstadt’s need to improve their defense, having already conceded 30 goals in the league.
Head coach Torsten Lieberknecht will be hoping his team can start tightening up their defense and secure a victory against Bochum, who have struggled to find the back of the net this season.
Bochum, however, have a history of successfully avoiding relegation and will be determined to earn their first win of the season.
Team news
Darmstadt will be without Matej Maglica and Klaus Gjasula due to suspensions from their dismissals against Bayern.
Thomas Isherwood and Christoph Zimmermann are expected to replace them in defense.
Fabian Holland, Fabio Torsiello, and Aaron Seydel are sidelined with muscle injuries, while Christoph Klarer is doubtful after picking up a minor knock in the previous game.
Bochum, on the other hand, have a lengthy injury list, with Jordi Osei-Tutu, Keven Schlotterbeck, Patrick Osterhage, Matus Bero, Michael Esser, Lys Mousset, and Mohammed Tolba all expected to miss the match.
Possible Starting Lineups:
SV Darmstadt 98:
- Schuhen;
- Isherwood, Zimmermann, Karic;
- Bader, Kempe, Franjic, Nurnberger;
- Mehlem; Pfeiffer, Skarke
VfL Bochum:
- Riemann;
- Gamboa, Masovic, Bernardo, Danilo;
- Losilla, Stoger; Asano, Forster, Antwi-Adjei;
- Paciencia
Prediction:
Both teams are dealing with defensive issues due to injuries and suspensions, which could lead to an exciting and high-scoring match.
While Bochum will be eager to secure their first win of the season, we predict that they will have to settle for a draw against Darmstadt.
- Our prediction: SV Darmstadt 98 2-2 VfL Bochum