While the other teams are fighting for the European places or sitting surprisingly high up the table, both VfB Stuttgart and SV Werder Bremen are just trying to keep their head above water at the bottom of the table.
Both teams in turmoil
With 10 and 13 points respectively, these two teams are really weak defensively which has resulted in an accumulation in heavy defeats. Last week, Stuttgart lost 4-1 against a weakened version of Thomas Tuchel’s Borussia Dortmund. Yes, it’s a bit paradoxical due to the score, but the Black and Yellows weren’t as impressive as usual. In the same matchday, Bremen were beaten 3-1 at home in the Nordderby by HSV; different teams but similar problems.
Indeed both sides need the three points, which are vital for the relegation battle. So with their new coach, Stuttgart have to improve their efficiency in front of the goal, because this lack of attacking threat is a major problem for them. Without it they would count more victories, no doubt. With their amazing attacking midfielder, Daniel Didavi, they are creating lots of chances so they have to be more clinical if they want to climb up the table.
On the other side, die Werderaner are collapsing. After a good start against Hoffenheim, the team began to lose every game for almost the same reasons as the VfB. The lack of defensive rigor is the major problem for them, but also the end product which is clearly not good; even with the comeback of Claudio Pizarro and a strong Anthony Ujah.
In conclusion, these two teams are not in the form of their life but they will have to overcome the difficulties this afternoon (and also after) if they want to start to step away from the relegation zone and the 2. Bundesliga. This game can be the start of a great comeback.
Prediceted line-ups
VfB Stuttgart: (4-2-3-1): Tyton - Schwaab, Niedermeier, Baumgartl, Insùa; Gentner, Rupp; Maxim, Didavi, Kostic; Werner.
SV Werder Bremen: (4-4-2): Wiedwald - Garcia, Vestergraad, Lukimya, Gebre Selassie - Grillitsch, Junuzovic, Bargfrede, Bartels; Ujah, Pizarro.
