Prediction: Hoffenheim vs Hertha Berlin

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: bet365

It’s been a long two months, but finally, football is back in our lives once again. The German Bundesliga is the first of the major leagues across Europe to get back to work, and while there are still some questions being raised over whether or not it’s the best idea, fans are just excited to dive back in and watch the beautiful game in all of its glory once again. Today, we’ll be taking a look at a potentially fascinating midtable clash between Hoffenheim and Hertha Berlin.

Hoffenheim

While they’re still in the mix for a place in Europe next season, the trajectory of Hoffenheim hasn’t exactly been going in the right direction in their last few games. From inconsistent performances to moments of brilliance that aren’t quite capitalised on, there’s still a lot of work to be done to this team before they can be viewed as serious top six contenders. Within the context of this game, they just need to focus on trying to punish a Hertha team that are very beatable in their current form.

Team News

Kramaic, Belfodil and Adamyan are all set to miss out through injury whereas Dabbur has fought off a knee problem and could make it onto the bench. Elsewhere, Larsen and Bebou will battle for a place in the starting XI.

Hertha Berlin

Hertha haven’t exactly served as the pride of Berlin throughout the course of the season so far, but one thing you’re just about guaranteed to get is entertainment in the form of goals. The break would’ve given them time to reflect on the defensive issues that continue to plague them, but it’s also worth remembering that they’re rarely blown out of the water. They stay in the fight more often than not, and that’s going to bode well for them in a potential slugfest against Hoffenheim.

Team News

Kalou has been suspended after breaking COVID-19 lockdown rules, whereas Rekik and Darida are out through injury and suspension respectively.

Factors to Consider

• This will be the first match in over two months for both clubs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Hoffenheim have two draws and four losses in their last six games.
• Hertha have one win, two draws and three losses in their last six games.
• Hoffenheim have scored seven goals and conceded 16 in their last six games.
• Hertha have scored 10 goals and conceded 17 in their last six games.

Conclusion

Both teams struggle to keep their opponents out more often than not, and in the first game back, they’ll want to make a statement. The ‘home crowd’ advantage doesn’t exist anymore so in terms of how the momentum will shift, we think both sides will trade blows back and forth as opposed to one gaining the upper hand on the other. We think it’s going to be a game full of energy and goals, with a score draw between the pair being the most likely outcome of all.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: bet365