1899 Hoffenheim vs VfB Stuttgart

1899 Hoffenheim arrive at this fixture searching for answers after a difficult run, having picked up 4 points from their last 5 games. 10 goals scored and 11 conceded in their last 5 appearances point to a side that carries a genuine goal threat.

VfB Stuttgart arrive with their own narrative, shaped by a set of results that pulls in another direction. Recent form suggests VfB Stuttgart are in red-hot form — 3 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses in their last 5. Their attacking output stands at 12 goals in 5 matches, and they have kept 1 clean sheet in that period. In recent encounters between these sides, VfB Stuttgart have dominated with 2 wins, with 0 home wins, 2 away wins and 4 draws. With 18 goals in 6 games (3.0 per match), the fixture has a reputation for entertainment.

Expect attacking ambition here: both sides have regularly found the net, and each will back themselves to outscore the other. It could take several goals to settle this fixture. As the stronger side on paper, VfB Stuttgart will want to dictate proceedings. However, 1899 Hoffenheim will be well aware of the threat they pose and may look to frustrate and hit on the break.

This could genuinely go either way, with neither side holding an obvious edge on recent evidence. The team in better form holds a slight edge, but this is far from a foregone conclusion. All eyes turn to the Bundesliga when this one gets under way.