This week the Bundesliga had reached the 22nd match week. The title race had further heated up as Hamburger SV had reached to the top. Bayern München kept the poor league form and this Sunday they will face Werder Bremen. Last week I had 3 correct tips and there were 2 correct scores within them. Now here's my tips for this weekend:
1. FC Köln (10th) vs Arminia Bielefeld (15th) - Friday: It was very encouraging for Köln last week as they beated Bayern München 2-1. They had a solid performance and the whole team coordinated each other well. Midfielder Fabrice Ehret did very well last week and I believe he can keep on this great form this Friday. His performance can relieve a lot of pressure of Milivoje Novakovic. On the other side, the solid defense made the team success last week, and I believe this is the important factor this week, as they have to stop Bielefeld's Artur Wichniarek. Speaking to Bielefeld, they were unable to win against VfL Bochum led them to lose a chance to climb up further in the table to prevent relegation. Wichniarek again is the most important person in the team and I believe this week he has a great challenge from the opposition. The key of this match is how Köln defend. If they defend well, they will keep the excellent form.
Last matchup: Bielefeld win 2-0
My tip: Köln win 2-0
Eintract Frankfurt (12th) vs Schalke 04 (9th) - Saturday: Again, Schalke missed the chance to win last week. Kevin Kuranyi even scored the great goal last week but he was not consistent enough to carry on until the end of the match. So I cannot say he had gained back his top form as he needed to play consistently, not scoring 1 great goal in few months. The other attacking players such as Gerald Asamoah and Jefferson Farfan needed to pick up the pace again. I do not worry about their defense, as Jermain Jones has a great strength and stamina to protect the midfield defense. On the other hand, Frankfurt barely won Karlsruher SC last week and gained the important 3 points in order to stay away from the relegation. They are actually in the good position for staying away from relegation, but it is too far away for them to fight for qualifying the European matches. I believe they do not have any pressure in this match and it may bring some surprises for us.
Last matchup: Schalke win 1-0
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Hannover 96 (13th) vs Bayer Leverkusen (5th) - Saturday: Hannover started to slump down recently and they have lost to Borussia Möchengladbach 3-2. Now they are just 3 points away from the relegation so they must pick up immediately. The absence of Mikael Forsell and Jan Schlaudraff really affect the team and the attacking does not have the focus to score. On the other hand, Bayer Leverkusen were pretty inconsistent and they had missed the chance to climb up the table. Partick Helmes however is in excellent form and I believe he will keep scoring as Hannover defense is not that solid. Arturo Vidal is back from action does help the team in terms of attack and defense. Tranquillo Barnetta also helps the midfield very much so that they will outplay Hannover in the midfield. The key point of the match is if Leverkusen can control the midfield.
Last matchup: Leverkusen win 4-0
My tip: Leverkusen win 3-0
Hertha Berlin (3rd) vs Borussia Möchengladbach (18th) - Saturday: Hertha Berlin was as same as Leverkusen, they missed the chance to climb back to the top of the table as they lost VfL Wolfsburg 2-1. Andrei Voronin was the key person of the team, but when he was frozen, Hertha Berlin did not have any players to relieve him. So this is the importance of Marko Pantelic. On the other hand, Gladbach did a very great job to beat Hannover, but sadly they are still far away to get away from the relegation trouble. This is a morale boosting for them and I think they morality can hold on Hertha Berlin a while. However, Hertha Berlin had won 7 home games in a row so this time Gladbach cannot get away with a point either.
Last matchup: Hertha Berlin win 1-0
My tip: Hertha Berlin win 3-0
Borussia Dortmund (8th) vs 1899 Hoffenheim (2nd) - Saturday: Dortmund had shown how tough they could be as they had drawn Schalke 1-1. The whole team now are depending on the morality and group discipline to carry on the match. However, the individual players are not in top form, such as Nelson Valdez and Alexander Frei. They always failed to finish the game so that they kept drawing. On the other hand, Hoffenheim was still struggling the absence of Vedad Ibisevic, even though Demba Ba was the man last week to hold on a draw against VfB Stuttgart. Sejad Salihovic and Carlos Eduardo will be very important for them in the match to fight against Dortmund. I believe this match will be decided by the attacking finishing.
Last matchup: Dortmund win 4-1
My tip: Match draw 2-2
VfL Bochum (16th) vs Energie Cottbus (14th) - Saturday: Bochum last week failed to win and as same as last week's opponent, Bielefeld, missed the chance to climb up the table. They need to work hard to get back in form. Diego Klimowicz and Vlad Munteanu do not have much influence to the team, so that the team is still in trouble. On the other hand, Cottbus did a very good job to beat Werder Bremen. It is very encouraging for the team that they can get away from the relegation trouble. Same as last season, Cottbus pick up the form after the winter break and the attacking and defense are keep improving. So I believe this match Cottbus can et a draw or even a win.
Last matchup: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Werder Bremen (11th) vs Bayern München (4th) - Sunday: Both teams are having trouble in the league. So it can be said that it is bad versus worse. Werder Bremen was yet to win the match and they desperately need one. The surprise loss against Cottbus last week led them dropped to 11th already. Claudio Pizarro did not play last week due to discipline problem. Now he is back to action and Werder Bremen hope him can bring the team out of trouble. Diego is still the other man to watch out for as his creativeness does assist the team very much. On the other hand, Bayern München was lucky that they could hold on the 4-point difference from the top of table as every close rival had lost points. Their playing style led the team kept making errors so that they had lost 3 games out of 4. They must win this match even it is quite hard for them. It was a huge boost for them that they had won Sporting Lisbon 5-0 away from home in Champions League. Still, Franck Ribery is the most important player so that his performance is the key of the match.
Last matchup: Werder Bremen win 5-2
My tip: Bayern München win 2-1
Hamburger SV (1st) vs VfL Wolfsburg (6th) - Sunday: Hamburger was the only team to take all 3 points last week within all the title challenging team. So they reached at the top of the table with 2 points leading. This is absolutely the great moment for them as their effort is fully deserved to be at the top. Piotr Trochowski is very important player now for Hamburger as he connects the team attack very well. Marcell Jansen had started to gain back the best from in Borussia Möchengladbach 2 seasons ago. His pace is definitely the great asset in the team. On the other side, Wolfsburg also did a great job to beat Hertha Berlin last week and they had reached 6th in the table. However, the difference between the home form and away form is too large so that I do not believe Wolfsburg can stop Hamburger, even Eden Dzeko and Grafite are in top form.
Last matchup: Wolfsburg win 3-0
My tip: Hamburger win 2-0
Karlsruher SC (17th) vs VfB Stuttgart (7th) - Sunday: Karlsruher still cannot get away from the trouble. They lost Frankfurt 1-0 last week. Their attacking is the main trouble of the team and Giovani Federico cannot help the team in attacking at all. So even Marco Engelhardt did well in the team, his influence only limited in the midfield defense as the team does not have any player to finish his play. I believe Karlsruher will keep slumping in the coming weeks. Stuttgart at the same time, their match form starts to slide down as they have drawn 2 matches in a row. The defense suddenly lost concentration in these 2 matches so Stuttgart needed to fight hard to hold out of draw. Mario Gomez is very good in the match form so I believe he will get some scores in this match as Karlsruher does not play well in defense. The key of the match is if Stuttgart can keep the possession well to lead them to win.
Last matchup: Stuttgart win 3-1
My tip: Stuttgart win 3-0
So this is it! Happy weekend!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
German Bundesliga Week 21 Tipping
This weekend German Bundesliga has reached 21st match week. The title race has been further heated up as Hertha Berlin has reached to the top. There are only 4 points different between 1st to 5th in the table. Hertha Berlin, Hoffenheim, Leverkusen, and Hamburger are facing the great challenge while Bayern München is facing a relatively easy challenge. Now here's the tip of this week:
Schalke 04 (9th) vs Borussia Dortmund (8th) - Friday: A Ruhr derby starts this match week. Schalke is quite surprising for me that they lost to Bochum last Saturday. Their attacking problem again made the team down. Jefferson Farfan did not contribute at all and Ivan Rakitic had not reached his peak form yet. Plus, since Fabien Ernst had left for good, the midfield defense had been weakened. Borussia Dortmund at the same time their attacking form had reached their low. Alexander Frei and Nelson Valdez could not help the team to win against Energie Cottbus even. The key of this match is how they finish the attack. A low scoring draw is predicted as both of them cannot convert the attack into goals well.
Last matchup: Match draw 3-3
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Energie Cottbus (16th) vs Werder Bremen (10th) - Saturday: Energie Cottbus seemed they were improving in a solid way. They had 4 game points in last 3 games led them to crawl back up of the table. The new signings had helped the team to improve, at least the team became more competitive in attacking and looked more solid in defense. Even this time they face Werder Bremen, I believe they can push them to the limit. Werder Bremen at the same time they were in poor form in Bundesliga. They only had 1 game point in 3 games, it mainly was because the absence of Diego and Claudio Pizarro. This match they will be back to action so there are more variety and creativity in attack. However, their defense keeps making fans worried as they lack of discipline. Per Mertesacker cannot lead the defense line, and the side backs cannot do their job. This match I believe it will be a draw as Cottbus can hold on.
Last matchup: Werder Bremen win 3-0
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Borussia Möchengladbach (18th) vs Hannover 96 (12th) - Saturday: Gladbach seemed they have improve their performance slowly, but is it too late for them now? It seems 1 point is not enough for them in the match and they must keep winning. Rob Friend still cannot find his form now, so Alexander Baumjohann and Marko Marin are the most important players in attack. Tomas Galasek will be the most important player in defense. The only hope of Gladbach now is keeping the high morale and pray for the miracle. Hannover on the other hand they lose their morality. However, they can picked up the morality on time as they snatched a draw against Stuttgart last week. Jan Schlaudraff is rated doubtful and Mikael Forssell will be very important now. They key of this match is who has higher morale.
Last matchup: Hannover win 5-1
My tip: Möchengladbach win 2-1
Karlsruher SC (17th) vs Eintract Frankfurt (13th) - Saturday: Karlsruher last week were unable to score goal and held out a draw. They are still in the cold streak even they won against Hamburger 2 weeks ago. Marco Engelhardt is still suspended this match so the midfield defense is their weakest link still. Sebatian Freis at the same time he will be the most important player in this match as he is the main source of the goal scorin. Frankfurt on the other hand they lost their morality and they even lost to Wolfsburg at home. They must pick up the morality on time as they are not safe from relegation yet. I believe this match will end up with draw because I cannot see any of them are able to win the match and they will cancel each other out.
Last matchup: Frankfurt win 2-1
My tip: Match draw 1-1
VfL Wolfsburg (6th) vs Hertha Berlin (1st) - Saturday: Wolfsburg is pretty surprising for me that they won away from home last week. Eden Dzeko keeps the great form in the league, even they have lost to PSG in UEFA Cup. This week they are back at home, I believe their performance will significantly improve and bring lots of threats to Hertha Berlin. Zvjezdan Misimovic will be the most important midfielder and I believe he can break through the Hertha Berlin defense. On the other hand, it is very encouraging for Hertha Berlin to beat Bayern München and reached to the top last week. Andrej Voronin is very fit recently so Marko Pantelic is not that important now. Solid defense is the key success for Hertha Berlin this season and I believe they can hang on in this match. However, the away form of Hertha Berlin is not that good, including a draw against Armina Bielefeld. So I believe it is not as easy as Hertha Berlin think in this match.
Last matchup: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Wolfsburg win 2-1
VfB Stuttgart (7th) vs 1899 Hoffenheim (2nd) - Saturday: Stuttgart recent form has been slip a bit, but they can still manage to hang on. Mario Gomez keeps a steady form and it helps the team to maintain their performance. However, he does not have any reliable partner to relieve his pressure. So when he is frozen, the Stuttgart attack will be in trouble. However, Hoffenheim had shown the effect of the absence of Vedad Ibisevic. Without the constant attacking spot, they had been comprehensively beaten by Bayer Leverkusen 4-1 last week. Boubacar Sanogo was absolutely useless in the team and only Carlos Eduardo and Demba Ba can perform. The defense seems not to improve so well since the arrival of Timo Hildebrand. Furthermore, Hoffenheim cannot perform and lost 5 of the 7 major top clashes so far (i.e., lost to Bayern, lost to Leverkusen twice, lost to Werder Bremen, and lost to Hertha Berlin). So I believe Stuttgart has the advantage to win the game.
Last matchup: Match draw 0-0
My tip: Stuttgart win 2-0
Bayern München (4th) vs 1. FC Köln (11th) - Saturday: Bayern last week was significantly affected by the international matchday so the team did not power up and lost to Hertha Berlin and missed the great chance to get to the top of table. However, it is a bless that they face the easiest challenge within the major title contender this week. Franck Ribery and Ze Roberto will be the most important players in the team and Miroslav Klose can pick up his form on time. Luca Toni will be most likely out of action this match but the team make it very clear that Lukas Podolski will play this match. I do not think the attack has any problem and the major concern is still the defense. On the other hand, Köln cannot maintain their performance week by week and I think they will be outclassed by Bayern. Milivoje Novakovic will be the only hope for the team to make surprises to fans. Also, the midfield and the defense are believed to be outclassed by Bayern. So I believe Bayern can control the midfield flow and win this match.
Last matchup: Bayern win 3-0
My tip: Bayern win 4-1
Arminia Bielefeld (14th) vs VfL Bochum (15th) - Saturday: This is the most important relegation fight in this week. Both teams only have a point difference and both teams have the similar form. Bielefeld had lost to Hamburger last Sunday but they still kept the good form 2 weeks ago. Artur Wichniarek is the most important player in this match, but he is rated doubtful this week so if he cannot play or he is not in form, it will hurt the team very much. On the other hand, Bochum had a wonderful victory against Schalke that did significantly improve their morale. Diego Klimowicz and Vlad Munteanu are starting to bring some positive impact to the team and they will bring a lot of threats to Bielefeld. However, considering Bielefeld have the home court advantage, Bielefeld can snatch a draw even the absence of Wichniarek will impact the team.
Last matchup: Bochum win 2-0
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Bayer Leverkusen (5th) vs Hamburger SV (3rd) - Sunday: Bayer Leverkusen last week had picked up the form in style which comprehensively beaten Hoffenheim 4-1. Partick Helmes is in great form and he is the most important player in the team. Captain Simon Rolfes is also important as his strength and stamina can connect the team very well. The concern is Arturo Vidal is still suspended but Thomas Zdebel and Renato Augusto can take his job well. Henrique is back to the starting lineup so it is a great relieve to Leverkusen defense. On the other hand, Hamburger did well last week which they beated Bielefeld 2-0. Ivica Olic is back just in time as Mlaten Petric is still suspended. Piotr Trochowski will be another important player who needs to watch out. However, the poor away form makes the team has trouble in this match. So I think Leverkusen can win this one.
Last matchup: Hamburger win 3-2
My tip: Leverkusen win 3-1
So that's it! Have a good weekend!
Schalke 04 (9th) vs Borussia Dortmund (8th) - Friday: A Ruhr derby starts this match week. Schalke is quite surprising for me that they lost to Bochum last Saturday. Their attacking problem again made the team down. Jefferson Farfan did not contribute at all and Ivan Rakitic had not reached his peak form yet. Plus, since Fabien Ernst had left for good, the midfield defense had been weakened. Borussia Dortmund at the same time their attacking form had reached their low. Alexander Frei and Nelson Valdez could not help the team to win against Energie Cottbus even. The key of this match is how they finish the attack. A low scoring draw is predicted as both of them cannot convert the attack into goals well.
Last matchup: Match draw 3-3
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Energie Cottbus (16th) vs Werder Bremen (10th) - Saturday: Energie Cottbus seemed they were improving in a solid way. They had 4 game points in last 3 games led them to crawl back up of the table. The new signings had helped the team to improve, at least the team became more competitive in attacking and looked more solid in defense. Even this time they face Werder Bremen, I believe they can push them to the limit. Werder Bremen at the same time they were in poor form in Bundesliga. They only had 1 game point in 3 games, it mainly was because the absence of Diego and Claudio Pizarro. This match they will be back to action so there are more variety and creativity in attack. However, their defense keeps making fans worried as they lack of discipline. Per Mertesacker cannot lead the defense line, and the side backs cannot do their job. This match I believe it will be a draw as Cottbus can hold on.
Last matchup: Werder Bremen win 3-0
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Borussia Möchengladbach (18th) vs Hannover 96 (12th) - Saturday: Gladbach seemed they have improve their performance slowly, but is it too late for them now? It seems 1 point is not enough for them in the match and they must keep winning. Rob Friend still cannot find his form now, so Alexander Baumjohann and Marko Marin are the most important players in attack. Tomas Galasek will be the most important player in defense. The only hope of Gladbach now is keeping the high morale and pray for the miracle. Hannover on the other hand they lose their morality. However, they can picked up the morality on time as they snatched a draw against Stuttgart last week. Jan Schlaudraff is rated doubtful and Mikael Forssell will be very important now. They key of this match is who has higher morale.
Last matchup: Hannover win 5-1
My tip: Möchengladbach win 2-1
Karlsruher SC (17th) vs Eintract Frankfurt (13th) - Saturday: Karlsruher last week were unable to score goal and held out a draw. They are still in the cold streak even they won against Hamburger 2 weeks ago. Marco Engelhardt is still suspended this match so the midfield defense is their weakest link still. Sebatian Freis at the same time he will be the most important player in this match as he is the main source of the goal scorin. Frankfurt on the other hand they lost their morality and they even lost to Wolfsburg at home. They must pick up the morality on time as they are not safe from relegation yet. I believe this match will end up with draw because I cannot see any of them are able to win the match and they will cancel each other out.
Last matchup: Frankfurt win 2-1
My tip: Match draw 1-1
VfL Wolfsburg (6th) vs Hertha Berlin (1st) - Saturday: Wolfsburg is pretty surprising for me that they won away from home last week. Eden Dzeko keeps the great form in the league, even they have lost to PSG in UEFA Cup. This week they are back at home, I believe their performance will significantly improve and bring lots of threats to Hertha Berlin. Zvjezdan Misimovic will be the most important midfielder and I believe he can break through the Hertha Berlin defense. On the other hand, it is very encouraging for Hertha Berlin to beat Bayern München and reached to the top last week. Andrej Voronin is very fit recently so Marko Pantelic is not that important now. Solid defense is the key success for Hertha Berlin this season and I believe they can hang on in this match. However, the away form of Hertha Berlin is not that good, including a draw against Armina Bielefeld. So I believe it is not as easy as Hertha Berlin think in this match.
Last matchup: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Wolfsburg win 2-1
VfB Stuttgart (7th) vs 1899 Hoffenheim (2nd) - Saturday: Stuttgart recent form has been slip a bit, but they can still manage to hang on. Mario Gomez keeps a steady form and it helps the team to maintain their performance. However, he does not have any reliable partner to relieve his pressure. So when he is frozen, the Stuttgart attack will be in trouble. However, Hoffenheim had shown the effect of the absence of Vedad Ibisevic. Without the constant attacking spot, they had been comprehensively beaten by Bayer Leverkusen 4-1 last week. Boubacar Sanogo was absolutely useless in the team and only Carlos Eduardo and Demba Ba can perform. The defense seems not to improve so well since the arrival of Timo Hildebrand. Furthermore, Hoffenheim cannot perform and lost 5 of the 7 major top clashes so far (i.e., lost to Bayern, lost to Leverkusen twice, lost to Werder Bremen, and lost to Hertha Berlin). So I believe Stuttgart has the advantage to win the game.
Last matchup: Match draw 0-0
My tip: Stuttgart win 2-0
Bayern München (4th) vs 1. FC Köln (11th) - Saturday: Bayern last week was significantly affected by the international matchday so the team did not power up and lost to Hertha Berlin and missed the great chance to get to the top of table. However, it is a bless that they face the easiest challenge within the major title contender this week. Franck Ribery and Ze Roberto will be the most important players in the team and Miroslav Klose can pick up his form on time. Luca Toni will be most likely out of action this match but the team make it very clear that Lukas Podolski will play this match. I do not think the attack has any problem and the major concern is still the defense. On the other hand, Köln cannot maintain their performance week by week and I think they will be outclassed by Bayern. Milivoje Novakovic will be the only hope for the team to make surprises to fans. Also, the midfield and the defense are believed to be outclassed by Bayern. So I believe Bayern can control the midfield flow and win this match.
Last matchup: Bayern win 3-0
My tip: Bayern win 4-1
Arminia Bielefeld (14th) vs VfL Bochum (15th) - Saturday: This is the most important relegation fight in this week. Both teams only have a point difference and both teams have the similar form. Bielefeld had lost to Hamburger last Sunday but they still kept the good form 2 weeks ago. Artur Wichniarek is the most important player in this match, but he is rated doubtful this week so if he cannot play or he is not in form, it will hurt the team very much. On the other hand, Bochum had a wonderful victory against Schalke that did significantly improve their morale. Diego Klimowicz and Vlad Munteanu are starting to bring some positive impact to the team and they will bring a lot of threats to Bielefeld. However, considering Bielefeld have the home court advantage, Bielefeld can snatch a draw even the absence of Wichniarek will impact the team.
Last matchup: Bochum win 2-0
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Bayer Leverkusen (5th) vs Hamburger SV (3rd) - Sunday: Bayer Leverkusen last week had picked up the form in style which comprehensively beaten Hoffenheim 4-1. Partick Helmes is in great form and he is the most important player in the team. Captain Simon Rolfes is also important as his strength and stamina can connect the team very well. The concern is Arturo Vidal is still suspended but Thomas Zdebel and Renato Augusto can take his job well. Henrique is back to the starting lineup so it is a great relieve to Leverkusen defense. On the other hand, Hamburger did well last week which they beated Bielefeld 2-0. Ivica Olic is back just in time as Mlaten Petric is still suspended. Piotr Trochowski will be another important player who needs to watch out. However, the poor away form makes the team has trouble in this match. So I think Leverkusen can win this one.
Last matchup: Hamburger win 3-2
My tip: Leverkusen win 3-1
So that's it! Have a good weekend!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
German Bundesliga Week 20 Tipping
German Bundesliga will hold the 20th week in this Valentine's Day weekend. Both Hoffenheim and Bayern München will face the great challenge in order to secure their place. Together with the post international matchday, there will be more uncertainties this week. Last week I have correctly tipped 5 matches and there were 2 correct scores within these. Now here's my tipping for this week:
1899 Hoffenheim (1st) vs Bayer Leverkusen (4th) - Friday: An early blockbuster this match week. Hoffenheim last week was a bit lucky to equalize the game against Borussia Mönchengladbach. The suspension of Carlos Eduardo and the injury of Vedad Ibisevic seemed to be the main factor that led Hoffenheim failed to win. It is very obvious that the absence of the duo led the team lose the core of the attack. It may help this week as Carlos Eduardo is free from suspension. However, the effect of Ibisevic's absence is still significant. Bayer Leverkusen on the other hand is starting to face the mid-season slump. They only managed to have 1 point in 2 matches. The loss against Stuttgart was tragic and they were comprehensively beaten. It is doubtful that Henrique is fit enough to play, as the center back replacement Lukas Sinkiewicz is having a tragic form. Arthur Vidal is suspended this week also affects the team so much. Toni Kroos may start this match, but it is very doubtful about his influence. I believe both teams are having their own trouble so a draw is very likely.
Last matchup: Leverkusen win 5-2
My tip: Match draw 2-2
Hertha Berlin (3rd) vs Bayern München (2nd) - Saturday: This is another huge blockbuster this match week. Hertha Berlin brought surprises to all bookmarkers that they played so well and solid. Their solid defense is very hard to break. Andrei Voronin is in top form, he made a lot of efforts last week against Armina Bielefeld but the other players could not finish for him. Voronin will be the great threat to Bayern as Marko Pantelic is not likely to start due to the conflict between the coach. Bayern München at the same time they picked up the form in the Nick of Time as they beated Borussia Dortmund last Sunday. Franck Ribery was a bit unlucky that he was unable to score goal as he made a lot of efforts in that match. However, Luca Toni is in the cold streak so it is very important for Miroslav Klose to score goals to lead to win. The defense of Bayern's away game is very solid, they only concede 9 goals so far as I believe they slow down the tempo. The key point of this match is if anyone can convert the limited chances into winning goal.
Last matchup: Bayern win 4-1
My tip: Bayern win 2-0
Eintract Frankfurt (12th) vs VfL Wolfsburg (7th) - Saturday: Not much surprise from Frankfurt as their performance so far is far from enough from being relegated. The whole team is not at a heavy pressure as they are far from qualifying the European matches as well. Nikos Liberopoulos is in top form and he can absolutely relieve the pressure of captain Ioannis Amanatidis. I believe Liberopoulos will still be the most important attacking force in this week. Wolfsburg on he other hand they are very good in home, but the poor away form always drag them down. Eden Dzeko played very well last week but he cannot perform as good as in home when they are away for matches. Grafite also has the same problem as well, so I do not believe they will make anything different in this week. I believe this is very clear that Frankfurt will win this one.
Last matchup: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Frankurt win 2-0
Hannover 96 (13th) vs VfB Stuttgart (6th) - Saturday: Hannover last week they lost to Energie Cottbus is not that surprised to me as they have changed too much. This week they go back home to play, there maybe different. This is because their defense is not that solid at all. The return of captain Robert Enke did not have any significant influence to the defense so this week they will also have a hard time to stop Stuttgart. The only different is the home court advantage can boost their morale and keep holding on. On the other hand, Stuttgart is in a very good form. They are still unbeaten in Bundesliga since the caretaking coach Markus Babbel is on the hot seat. Mario Gomez is improving his form and he will bring lots of threats to Hannover this week. Mathieu Delpierre on the other hand is becoming more solid every week, so it is very hard for Hannover to score goals. Consequently, I believe even Stuttgart is the away team, they are able to beat Hannover.
Last matchup: Stuttgart win 2-0
My tip: Stuttgart win 2-0
1. FC Köln (11th) vs Karlsruher SC (16th) - Saturday: Köln last week had played quite well, captain Milivoje Novakovic is very good in form and not he scored 2 goals last week, but he made lots of chances as well. I believe he will be the most important player who can lead the team to win this week. Pedro Tonon Geromel is the other important defender in the team in order to stop Karlsruher attack. Together with home court advantage, they have the upper hand. On the other hand, Karlsruher even boosted their morale after the great comeback against Hamburger SV, they have another trouble afterwards. The suspension of Marco Engelhardt really does hurt the team as Karlsruher will have not any midfield defense. As their defenders are always being outplayed, they will have a hard time to hang on.
Last matchup: Köln win 2-0
My tip: Köln win 3-0
Werder Bremen (10th) vs Borussia Mönchengladbach (18th) - Saturday: Werder Bremen did not perform well at all after the winter break. They are facing another huge slump as they did not get any point in last 2 matches. This week Diego and Claudio Pizarro will continue to serve his suspension so their attack is drastically affected. However, facing Gladbach is their very good chance to bounce back as Gladbach is not a strong team and their remaining attacking force is able to breakthrough. Gladbach on the other hand was very encouraging that they were so close to beat Hoffenheim. Goalkeeper Logan Bailly seems to be the right purchase of Gladbach as he made saves after saves last week. It is very unlucky for him to be unable to get a clean sheet or even a win. However, the defenders and the defensive midfielders make me very worried that if they can relieve the pressure to Bailly or even bring more harm to him. So I believe the key point of this match is how long Gladbach can hold.
Last matchup: Mönchengladbach win 3-2
My tip: Werder Bremen win 2-0
VfL Bochum (17th) vs Schalke 04 (8th) - Saturday: Bochum last week was back to original, they have lost to VfL Wolfsburg 2-0 showed that the team did not have any improvement, and also showed the week 18 victory was just a fluke. Diego Klimowicz and Vlad Munteanu are yet to be proven for they are capable to save the team from trouble. However, as the team now is running out of time, they are very hard to perform well instantly as they do not have time to mix and match. Schalke 04 on the other hand, Benedikt Höwedes caught the only chance to score and win against Werder Bremen. Even a win is a win, it showed that the attacking force such as Jefferson Farfan and Ivan Rakitic are not on form. The only weapon they have to win match is their defense. The pathetic attack from Schalke is enough to lead them to win this week, and with the solid defense, I believe they are able to carry through with a slim victory.
Last matchup: Schalke win 1-0
My tip: Schalke win 1-0
Borussia Dortmund (9th) vs Energie Cottbus (15th) - Sunday: Borussia Dortmund showed their inexperienced problem against Bayern last week. Felipe Santana made a huge mistake to make the team wasted all the efforts before 87th minute. They played very well last week and they were so close to hold out a draw and even a win, but I did not blame anybody as experience needs time. Captain Florian Kringe is the only factor I concern as he does not look confident at all so far. I do hope he can build up his confident soon. Energie Cottbus on the other hand they seem to start to bring out of trouble. They had beaten Hannover 96 comprehensively gave fans a huge confident. However, it is very unlucky to face Dortmund this week. It will be another very tough match for them as Dortmund outclass them. Even though the home record for Dortmund is not so good, I believe Cottbus will be very hard to beat them and Dortmund will have an easy win.
Last matchup: Dortmund win 1-0
My tip: Dortmund win 3-0
Hamburger SV (4th) vs Arminia Bielefeld (14th) - Sunday: Hamburger is the only team made me very disappointed last week. They could not hold on the lead and came home nothing in the end against Karlsruher. However, they are the different team in home so I still give the confident to them. The suspension of both Ivica Olic and Mlaten Petric makes me worried a bit as they do not have the other good striker. However, the defense of Bielefeld is so weak that Hamburger's remaining attacking force will be able to score goals. Bielefeld on the other hand, Artur Wichniarek is the only player who is in top form, and the others cannot help him at all. So his performance is the key Bielefeld to win this game. Even Bielefeld had 4 points in recents 2 games, which can be said they are in top form, I do not believe they can continue in this match and Hamburger will win this one due to excellent home form.
Last matchup: Hamburger win 4-2
My tip: Hamburger win 3-0
That's it for this week. Happy Valentine's Day!
1899 Hoffenheim (1st) vs Bayer Leverkusen (4th) - Friday: An early blockbuster this match week. Hoffenheim last week was a bit lucky to equalize the game against Borussia Mönchengladbach. The suspension of Carlos Eduardo and the injury of Vedad Ibisevic seemed to be the main factor that led Hoffenheim failed to win. It is very obvious that the absence of the duo led the team lose the core of the attack. It may help this week as Carlos Eduardo is free from suspension. However, the effect of Ibisevic's absence is still significant. Bayer Leverkusen on the other hand is starting to face the mid-season slump. They only managed to have 1 point in 2 matches. The loss against Stuttgart was tragic and they were comprehensively beaten. It is doubtful that Henrique is fit enough to play, as the center back replacement Lukas Sinkiewicz is having a tragic form. Arthur Vidal is suspended this week also affects the team so much. Toni Kroos may start this match, but it is very doubtful about his influence. I believe both teams are having their own trouble so a draw is very likely.
Last matchup: Leverkusen win 5-2
My tip: Match draw 2-2
Hertha Berlin (3rd) vs Bayern München (2nd) - Saturday: This is another huge blockbuster this match week. Hertha Berlin brought surprises to all bookmarkers that they played so well and solid. Their solid defense is very hard to break. Andrei Voronin is in top form, he made a lot of efforts last week against Armina Bielefeld but the other players could not finish for him. Voronin will be the great threat to Bayern as Marko Pantelic is not likely to start due to the conflict between the coach. Bayern München at the same time they picked up the form in the Nick of Time as they beated Borussia Dortmund last Sunday. Franck Ribery was a bit unlucky that he was unable to score goal as he made a lot of efforts in that match. However, Luca Toni is in the cold streak so it is very important for Miroslav Klose to score goals to lead to win. The defense of Bayern's away game is very solid, they only concede 9 goals so far as I believe they slow down the tempo. The key point of this match is if anyone can convert the limited chances into winning goal.
Last matchup: Bayern win 4-1
My tip: Bayern win 2-0
Eintract Frankfurt (12th) vs VfL Wolfsburg (7th) - Saturday: Not much surprise from Frankfurt as their performance so far is far from enough from being relegated. The whole team is not at a heavy pressure as they are far from qualifying the European matches as well. Nikos Liberopoulos is in top form and he can absolutely relieve the pressure of captain Ioannis Amanatidis. I believe Liberopoulos will still be the most important attacking force in this week. Wolfsburg on he other hand they are very good in home, but the poor away form always drag them down. Eden Dzeko played very well last week but he cannot perform as good as in home when they are away for matches. Grafite also has the same problem as well, so I do not believe they will make anything different in this week. I believe this is very clear that Frankfurt will win this one.
Last matchup: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Frankurt win 2-0
Hannover 96 (13th) vs VfB Stuttgart (6th) - Saturday: Hannover last week they lost to Energie Cottbus is not that surprised to me as they have changed too much. This week they go back home to play, there maybe different. This is because their defense is not that solid at all. The return of captain Robert Enke did not have any significant influence to the defense so this week they will also have a hard time to stop Stuttgart. The only different is the home court advantage can boost their morale and keep holding on. On the other hand, Stuttgart is in a very good form. They are still unbeaten in Bundesliga since the caretaking coach Markus Babbel is on the hot seat. Mario Gomez is improving his form and he will bring lots of threats to Hannover this week. Mathieu Delpierre on the other hand is becoming more solid every week, so it is very hard for Hannover to score goals. Consequently, I believe even Stuttgart is the away team, they are able to beat Hannover.
Last matchup: Stuttgart win 2-0
My tip: Stuttgart win 2-0
1. FC Köln (11th) vs Karlsruher SC (16th) - Saturday: Köln last week had played quite well, captain Milivoje Novakovic is very good in form and not he scored 2 goals last week, but he made lots of chances as well. I believe he will be the most important player who can lead the team to win this week. Pedro Tonon Geromel is the other important defender in the team in order to stop Karlsruher attack. Together with home court advantage, they have the upper hand. On the other hand, Karlsruher even boosted their morale after the great comeback against Hamburger SV, they have another trouble afterwards. The suspension of Marco Engelhardt really does hurt the team as Karlsruher will have not any midfield defense. As their defenders are always being outplayed, they will have a hard time to hang on.
Last matchup: Köln win 2-0
My tip: Köln win 3-0
Werder Bremen (10th) vs Borussia Mönchengladbach (18th) - Saturday: Werder Bremen did not perform well at all after the winter break. They are facing another huge slump as they did not get any point in last 2 matches. This week Diego and Claudio Pizarro will continue to serve his suspension so their attack is drastically affected. However, facing Gladbach is their very good chance to bounce back as Gladbach is not a strong team and their remaining attacking force is able to breakthrough. Gladbach on the other hand was very encouraging that they were so close to beat Hoffenheim. Goalkeeper Logan Bailly seems to be the right purchase of Gladbach as he made saves after saves last week. It is very unlucky for him to be unable to get a clean sheet or even a win. However, the defenders and the defensive midfielders make me very worried that if they can relieve the pressure to Bailly or even bring more harm to him. So I believe the key point of this match is how long Gladbach can hold.
Last matchup: Mönchengladbach win 3-2
My tip: Werder Bremen win 2-0
VfL Bochum (17th) vs Schalke 04 (8th) - Saturday: Bochum last week was back to original, they have lost to VfL Wolfsburg 2-0 showed that the team did not have any improvement, and also showed the week 18 victory was just a fluke. Diego Klimowicz and Vlad Munteanu are yet to be proven for they are capable to save the team from trouble. However, as the team now is running out of time, they are very hard to perform well instantly as they do not have time to mix and match. Schalke 04 on the other hand, Benedikt Höwedes caught the only chance to score and win against Werder Bremen. Even a win is a win, it showed that the attacking force such as Jefferson Farfan and Ivan Rakitic are not on form. The only weapon they have to win match is their defense. The pathetic attack from Schalke is enough to lead them to win this week, and with the solid defense, I believe they are able to carry through with a slim victory.
Last matchup: Schalke win 1-0
My tip: Schalke win 1-0
Borussia Dortmund (9th) vs Energie Cottbus (15th) - Sunday: Borussia Dortmund showed their inexperienced problem against Bayern last week. Felipe Santana made a huge mistake to make the team wasted all the efforts before 87th minute. They played very well last week and they were so close to hold out a draw and even a win, but I did not blame anybody as experience needs time. Captain Florian Kringe is the only factor I concern as he does not look confident at all so far. I do hope he can build up his confident soon. Energie Cottbus on the other hand they seem to start to bring out of trouble. They had beaten Hannover 96 comprehensively gave fans a huge confident. However, it is very unlucky to face Dortmund this week. It will be another very tough match for them as Dortmund outclass them. Even though the home record for Dortmund is not so good, I believe Cottbus will be very hard to beat them and Dortmund will have an easy win.
Last matchup: Dortmund win 1-0
My tip: Dortmund win 3-0
Hamburger SV (4th) vs Arminia Bielefeld (14th) - Sunday: Hamburger is the only team made me very disappointed last week. They could not hold on the lead and came home nothing in the end against Karlsruher. However, they are the different team in home so I still give the confident to them. The suspension of both Ivica Olic and Mlaten Petric makes me worried a bit as they do not have the other good striker. However, the defense of Bielefeld is so weak that Hamburger's remaining attacking force will be able to score goals. Bielefeld on the other hand, Artur Wichniarek is the only player who is in top form, and the others cannot help him at all. So his performance is the key Bielefeld to win this game. Even Bielefeld had 4 points in recents 2 games, which can be said they are in top form, I do not believe they can continue in this match and Hamburger will win this one due to excellent home form.
Last matchup: Hamburger win 4-2
My tip: Hamburger win 3-0
That's it for this week. Happy Valentine's Day!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
German Bundesliga Week 19 Tipping
Last week German Bundesliga had few surprises in the result which affected my tipping, but I could still manage to have 4 correct tips and 1 correct score within those 4 tips. This week the Bundesliga reaches 19th week of the season, the most exciting match will be the Sunday showdown between Bayern München and Borussia Dortmund. Now here's my tip for this week:
Arminia Bielefeld (14th) vs Hertha Berlin (2nd) - Friday: Both teams had won last week. It was very impressing for Bielefeld that they were able to beat Werder Bremen last Sunday. Artur Wichniarek is keeping the good form and he is lethal in the opposite half. He will be the critical player who can change the game for Bielefeld. However, when facing to Hertha Berlin's solid defense, I believe it is quite hard to break them through by himself. On the other hand, Hertha Berlin is keeping the excellent form and they climbed up to second place in the table. They are facing the injury of Marko Pantelic however, will affect their attacking efficiency. Also, their away game form is not too good so it is a tricky trip for them. The key point of the match is if Hertha Berlin can defend well and score goal first.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Schalke 04 (9th) vs Werder Bremen (10th) - Saturday: It is supposed to be a top table clash, but their poor performance led them to be at the mid-table only. Schalke had lost Fabien Ernst at the last minute of winter transfer window who went for Fenerbache in Turkey. I believe it is a big blow for Schalke as his influence and leadership are very important to the team. Bordon needs to do some extra work to keep the team moving. The attacking force is still cannot get any clue of scoring so that was why they lost 1-0 against Hannover last Saturday. Werder Bremen had the problem of defense at the same time. They lost the goals against Bielefeld were all cheap goals. All Werder Bremen players were not in the form yet, together with the suspension of Diego, I believe they are even very hard to hang on for a draw.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Schalke 04 win 2-1
Karlsruher SC (16th) vs Hamburger SV (3rd) - Saturday: Different emotions from last week's result. Karlsruher are still suffering from defeat and they still do not have any signs to bounce back. The whole team is in very poor in morale and it is very hard for them to beat any teams now. On the other hand, Hamburger had a very happy weekend as they beated Bayern München 1-0 and they were in an excellent form. The only worry is Ivica Olic is still suspended, but Mlaten Petric can relieve this problem. Even Hamburger is not good on away form, I believe they still can win this match easily.
Last round: Hamburger win 2-1
My tip: Hamburger win 2-0
Bayer Leverkusen (5th) vs VfB Stuttgart (7th) - Saturday: It was a bit unlucky for Leverkusen that they were not able to win against Borussia Dortmund last week, as they were definite the better team. Talented midfielder Toni Kroos is on loaned to Leverkusen before the winter transfer closes, but I do not believe he will get the regular starting place instantly. The whole team is very energetic and high morale so I believe this great form will continue. Stuttgart on the other hand, even they won last week but this week is the real deal. Mario Gomez will be very important for the team to lead Stuttgart to beat Leverkusen. However, it does not seem there is another player who can relieve his pressure so I believe Stuttgart is quite hard to snatch a draw even.
Last round: Leverkusen win 2-0
My tip: Leverkusen win 3-1
Borussia Mönchengladbach (18th) vs 1899 Hoffenheim (1st) - Saturday: It is very unlucky for Gladbach as they will face another tough team after getting back from winter break. Last week they were outclassed by Stuttgart and this week they will be outclassed again. The entired Gladbach do not have any sign to bounce back. Even worse, after they made a huge team change up, the performance did not improved at all. Marko Marin is the only player who is trustable but I do not believe he can turn things around. The fragile defense again will make them down. Hoffenheim on the other hand they are still in great form, they beated Cottbus by class so I believe they can go on. This match, however, still cannot prove any effect of the Vedad Ibisevic's long term absence as the opponent simply cannot handle the attack at all. So Hoffenheim can still win the match easily.
Last round: Hoffenheim win 1-0
My tip: Hoffenheim win 3-0
Eintract Frankfurt (13th) vs 1. FC Köln (11th) - Saturday: Frankfurt last week had lost to the excellent form Hertha Berlin, so I cannot complain anything about it. However, they played pretty well as they only lost by 1 goal, so I believe they can improve their form and climb up in the table. The defense is quite solid so the key point of the game will be their attacking. On the other hand, Köln should have kicked themselves for not winning against Wolfsburg, who cannot perform well away from home. Novakovic's suspension is really affecting their performance in attack so this week the team's attack is predicted not to be improved. The key point of this match is the Köln's attacks can break through Frankfurt.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Frankfurt win 1-0
VfL Wolfsburg (8th) vs VfL Bochum (15th) - Saturday: Wolfsburg last week was a bit lucky to snatch a draw against Köln, but this week I believe they will perform differently. The difference between home and away form is too huge so their away performance cannot be used as the reference to predict their next home game. I believe they will perform like champion against Bochum and Grafite, Eden Dzeko, and Zvjezdan Misimovic will bring waves of pressure to Bochum. On the other hand, although Bochum had a second win of the season last week, I do not believe they can carry on. Diego Klimowicz had a impressing debut match and he will be the key player again. Vlad Munteanu will be the important player to relieve Klimowicz but I believe he will not have an easy time this week.
Last week: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Wolfsburg win 3-0
Energie Cottbus (17th) vs Hannover 96 (12th) - Sunday: Cottbus last week had been outclassed by opponent so it is a bit unfair that to judge their performance and form according to this match. The debutants did not make any effect to the team yet as they could not build up any team chemistry. Hannover on the other hand, had beated Schalke 1-0 and they were supposed to have a high match morale. However, the last minute departure of Szabolcs Huszti to Zenit St. Petersburg really did hurt the team. It is still unknown that Jacek Krzynowek can really replace Huszti. As the huge player change of Hannover 96, I believe Cottbus can stand a chance.
Last round: Match draw 0-0
My tip: Cottbus win 2-1
Bayern München (4th) vs Borussia Dortmund (6th) - Sunday: This is the key match of this week. Bayern last week had a timely wake up call that they were defeated by Hamburger by 1-0. However, Miroslav Klose, Luca Toni, and Franck Ribery can still maintain the good form and I believe they can still bring more impact to the opposition. The only concern is their defense, it deosn't seem they are improving in their defense so when facing the fast Dortmund counter attack, there will be some pressure. On the other hand, Dortmund is a bit lucky to hold out a draw. Kevin-Prince Boateng did not come back on the top form when he was in Hertha Berlin. Alex Frei is the only player who can perform well and the other strikers such as Mohamad Zidan and Nelson Valdez cannot find his form at all. The critical point of this match is if Bayern can hold on the counter attack.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Bayern win 3-1
So that's it for this week. Have a nice match weekend!
Arminia Bielefeld (14th) vs Hertha Berlin (2nd) - Friday: Both teams had won last week. It was very impressing for Bielefeld that they were able to beat Werder Bremen last Sunday. Artur Wichniarek is keeping the good form and he is lethal in the opposite half. He will be the critical player who can change the game for Bielefeld. However, when facing to Hertha Berlin's solid defense, I believe it is quite hard to break them through by himself. On the other hand, Hertha Berlin is keeping the excellent form and they climbed up to second place in the table. They are facing the injury of Marko Pantelic however, will affect their attacking efficiency. Also, their away game form is not too good so it is a tricky trip for them. The key point of the match is if Hertha Berlin can defend well and score goal first.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Match draw 1-1
Schalke 04 (9th) vs Werder Bremen (10th) - Saturday: It is supposed to be a top table clash, but their poor performance led them to be at the mid-table only. Schalke had lost Fabien Ernst at the last minute of winter transfer window who went for Fenerbache in Turkey. I believe it is a big blow for Schalke as his influence and leadership are very important to the team. Bordon needs to do some extra work to keep the team moving. The attacking force is still cannot get any clue of scoring so that was why they lost 1-0 against Hannover last Saturday. Werder Bremen had the problem of defense at the same time. They lost the goals against Bielefeld were all cheap goals. All Werder Bremen players were not in the form yet, together with the suspension of Diego, I believe they are even very hard to hang on for a draw.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Schalke 04 win 2-1
Karlsruher SC (16th) vs Hamburger SV (3rd) - Saturday: Different emotions from last week's result. Karlsruher are still suffering from defeat and they still do not have any signs to bounce back. The whole team is in very poor in morale and it is very hard for them to beat any teams now. On the other hand, Hamburger had a very happy weekend as they beated Bayern München 1-0 and they were in an excellent form. The only worry is Ivica Olic is still suspended, but Mlaten Petric can relieve this problem. Even Hamburger is not good on away form, I believe they still can win this match easily.
Last round: Hamburger win 2-1
My tip: Hamburger win 2-0
Bayer Leverkusen (5th) vs VfB Stuttgart (7th) - Saturday: It was a bit unlucky for Leverkusen that they were not able to win against Borussia Dortmund last week, as they were definite the better team. Talented midfielder Toni Kroos is on loaned to Leverkusen before the winter transfer closes, but I do not believe he will get the regular starting place instantly. The whole team is very energetic and high morale so I believe this great form will continue. Stuttgart on the other hand, even they won last week but this week is the real deal. Mario Gomez will be very important for the team to lead Stuttgart to beat Leverkusen. However, it does not seem there is another player who can relieve his pressure so I believe Stuttgart is quite hard to snatch a draw even.
Last round: Leverkusen win 2-0
My tip: Leverkusen win 3-1
Borussia Mönchengladbach (18th) vs 1899 Hoffenheim (1st) - Saturday: It is very unlucky for Gladbach as they will face another tough team after getting back from winter break. Last week they were outclassed by Stuttgart and this week they will be outclassed again. The entired Gladbach do not have any sign to bounce back. Even worse, after they made a huge team change up, the performance did not improved at all. Marko Marin is the only player who is trustable but I do not believe he can turn things around. The fragile defense again will make them down. Hoffenheim on the other hand they are still in great form, they beated Cottbus by class so I believe they can go on. This match, however, still cannot prove any effect of the Vedad Ibisevic's long term absence as the opponent simply cannot handle the attack at all. So Hoffenheim can still win the match easily.
Last round: Hoffenheim win 1-0
My tip: Hoffenheim win 3-0
Eintract Frankfurt (13th) vs 1. FC Köln (11th) - Saturday: Frankfurt last week had lost to the excellent form Hertha Berlin, so I cannot complain anything about it. However, they played pretty well as they only lost by 1 goal, so I believe they can improve their form and climb up in the table. The defense is quite solid so the key point of the game will be their attacking. On the other hand, Köln should have kicked themselves for not winning against Wolfsburg, who cannot perform well away from home. Novakovic's suspension is really affecting their performance in attack so this week the team's attack is predicted not to be improved. The key point of this match is the Köln's attacks can break through Frankfurt.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Frankfurt win 1-0
VfL Wolfsburg (8th) vs VfL Bochum (15th) - Saturday: Wolfsburg last week was a bit lucky to snatch a draw against Köln, but this week I believe they will perform differently. The difference between home and away form is too huge so their away performance cannot be used as the reference to predict their next home game. I believe they will perform like champion against Bochum and Grafite, Eden Dzeko, and Zvjezdan Misimovic will bring waves of pressure to Bochum. On the other hand, although Bochum had a second win of the season last week, I do not believe they can carry on. Diego Klimowicz had a impressing debut match and he will be the key player again. Vlad Munteanu will be the important player to relieve Klimowicz but I believe he will not have an easy time this week.
Last week: Match draw 2-2
My tip: Wolfsburg win 3-0
Energie Cottbus (17th) vs Hannover 96 (12th) - Sunday: Cottbus last week had been outclassed by opponent so it is a bit unfair that to judge their performance and form according to this match. The debutants did not make any effect to the team yet as they could not build up any team chemistry. Hannover on the other hand, had beated Schalke 1-0 and they were supposed to have a high match morale. However, the last minute departure of Szabolcs Huszti to Zenit St. Petersburg really did hurt the team. It is still unknown that Jacek Krzynowek can really replace Huszti. As the huge player change of Hannover 96, I believe Cottbus can stand a chance.
Last round: Match draw 0-0
My tip: Cottbus win 2-1
Bayern München (4th) vs Borussia Dortmund (6th) - Sunday: This is the key match of this week. Bayern last week had a timely wake up call that they were defeated by Hamburger by 1-0. However, Miroslav Klose, Luca Toni, and Franck Ribery can still maintain the good form and I believe they can still bring more impact to the opposition. The only concern is their defense, it deosn't seem they are improving in their defense so when facing the fast Dortmund counter attack, there will be some pressure. On the other hand, Dortmund is a bit lucky to hold out a draw. Kevin-Prince Boateng did not come back on the top form when he was in Hertha Berlin. Alex Frei is the only player who can perform well and the other strikers such as Mohamad Zidan and Nelson Valdez cannot find his form at all. The critical point of this match is if Bayern can hold on the counter attack.
Last round: Match draw 1-1
My tip: Bayern win 3-1
So that's it for this week. Have a nice match weekend!
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