Sinsheim is set for a clash as TSG Hoffenheim and VfB Stuttgart face each other in the Baden-Württemberg derby this afternoon. Both teams are level on points and have their sights set on qualifying for European competitions, making a win crucial.
Hoffenheim Aim to Continue Strong Season
TSG Hoffenheim have had a noteworthy season, securing 17 wins – a new club record. Coach Christian Ilzer is looking to emulate the strong 2016/17 season, when the team had one more point at this stage. However, the team will feel the absence of key players Robin Hranac and Grischa Prömel, the latter being a significant loss in midfield, covering 13.4 kilometres every 90 minutes.
Stuttgart Under Pressure for Champions League Spot
VfB Stuttgart are under pressure to perform. After two games without a win, the Swabians face Leverkusen and Frankfurt in the final stretch as they aim to secure a Champions League spot. Ermedin Demirovic marked his importance to the team with his tenth goal of the season. He is only the second VfB player after Serhou Guirassy to score ten or more goals in his first two seasons this millennium. The cup win against Freiburg has boosted the team, and Coach Sebastian Hoeneß is projecting confidence.
Historical Stats and Tactical Approaches
Historically, Hoffenheim have a slight edge, but Stuttgart’s away form is not to be underestimated. Stuttgart arrive in Sinsheim on a run of 19 consecutive away games with a goal, and have already set a club record with 36 goals on the road. However, the last encounter at Hoffenheim’s home ground saw VfB win 3-0.
Both teams are among the Bundesliga’s best when it comes to pressing. Hoffenheim have the lowest PPDA value in the league at 9.5, with Stuttgart close behind at 11.6. There are similarities in aerial duels as well: both teams have a 53.8 per cent success rate in winning headers, putting them level with Leverkusen. Hoffenheim have scored 13 headed goals, second only to Dortmund.
- Vladimír Coufal is in top form with eight assists, six from crosses, already surpassing his personal season record.
- Leon Avdullahu’s contract extension, with a pass completion rate of 89.5 per cent, second only to Hranac within the team, reinforces Ilzer’s tactical setup.
The derby promises to be a tight contest. Who will take the points?