Prediction: Hoffenheim vs RB Leipzig

Prediction: Leipzig win

Best Odds: 2/5

Bookmaker: bet365

While we may be seeing the return of La Liga and the Premier League in short order, you should never forget your roots. The German Bundesliga has been going strong for a few weeks now, and they’ll hope to continue that trend this weekend. The game we’re going to be looking at will be a top seven battle between two sides that are desperate to string a few wins together – Hoffenheim, hoping to qualify for the Europa League, and RB Leipzig, hoping to maintain their spot as a Champions League club.

Hoffenheim

A four game unbeaten run doesn’t really tell the whole story for a Hoffenheim side that is crying out for some drive and determination. They don’t have the biggest and best squad in the league but they still seem to be capable of lingering around the top eight, and the big question now is whether or not they can take that next step up. The hosts will have to neutralise Leipzig at the back if they want to come away with the win here, and that alone is going to be a tall order.

Team News

Belfodil is still out of action due to his knee injury whereas Hubner is suspended after being sent off last weekend. Elsewhere, Larsen, Kramaric, Adamyan and Grillitsch are all set to undergo fitness tests before a decision is made on whether they can feature.

RB Leipzig

The draw against Paderborn last weekend really put Leipzig’s problems into perspective. They’ve had so many opportunities to stretch their legs and even push on towards the title race, but they’ve failed to take advantage of them. Now, they’ll spend the next few games looking over their shoulder, when they should already be celebrating qualifying for the UCL next season. In this particular game they’re clearly the far superior attacking team, but in reality, it’ll probably come down to how they’re feeling on the day.

Team News

Upamecano is once again suspended after his red card against Paderborn with Poulsen being ruled out with an ankle problem. Ampadu, Konate and Sabitzer are also doubts for this one.

Factors to Consider

• In their first meeting back in December, Leipzig beat Hoffenheim 3-1.
• Hoffenheim have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
• Leipzig have won three and drawn three of their last six games.
• Hoffenheim have scored eight goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Leipzig have scored 16 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

Given the pattern that Leipzig appear to be following, as well as Hoffenheim’s tendency to fall apart from time to time, this feels like a no brainer of a win for the visitors. Leipzig aren’t going to be challenging for the title, even next season, if they continue to play the way that they are, but they will make a few lasting memories in the form of big wins. We’re expecting another showing like that here with their formidable attacking force running through anything and everything that Hoffenheim has to offer.

Prediction: Leipzig win

Best Odds: 2/5

Bookmaker: bet365