Bundesliga Matchday 13 Preview: Clash of the Giants

With international week out of the way, which was relatively successful with Germany's national side getting a draw against Italy and a 1-0 victory over England in London, team mates of the DFB Team will meet Saturday for a  "Clash of the Giants."

Jogi Loew experimented in London and gave some of his younger crop a chance to show their talents.  London resident and Arsenal player Mers Mertesacker got the winning goal with a header of a corner.  Mats Hummels and Schmelzer were replaced early due to injuries as a precaution.  It is not clear if the two Dortmund steadfasts will be available for Saturday's match.  Frank Ribery will be out due to a broken rib. Bayern currently enjoys a four point lead on top of the table and could expand its lead to seven.  Bayer Leverkusen, tied at 28 points with Dortmund has an opportunity to slip into second spot, when the side travels to Berlin.  The Bundesliga table could be completely changed at the end of play on Saturday.

The matchday kicks off with Friday's fixture in the Daimler Benz Arena in Stuttgart, when fourth on the table Borussia Moenchengladbach meets eight placed VFB Stuttgart.  The two sides are separated by six points.  Gladbach with a 7-1-4 sheet in 12 matches will attempt to make up space to close up to the top trio, which it trails by six points.

The remaining matches on Saturday sees Nuernberg hosting Wolfsburg. Wolfsburg, currently in fifth spot will want to build on its success, while Nuernber will attempt to get its first victory of the season.  Wolfsburg trails Gladbach by one point and is currently holding fifth spot.   Augsburg hosts Hoffenheim and the fiesty Bavarians will try to hold off multiple goals from the Hoffenheim side, which holds the notorious record of most goals scored in their matches so far this season.  Braunschweig hosts Freiburg and are even in points.  Can Braunschweig prevail or will Freiburg finally propel itself out of the relegation zone.  Freiburg, which qualified for the Euro League last season, has had an uneasy start.  Eintracht Frankfurt hosts Schalke 04, which still aspires a Champions League spot. Schalke is currently in sixth spot, while Frankfurt has had its problems in the domestic league.

In Sunday's two remaining matches, which see Hamburg host Hanover 96 and Mainz traveling to Bremen, not much movement will be seen on the table.  Mainz, which has had a good start to the season has dropped off with a 5-1-6 record, with Bremen currently holding on to spot ten.  Hanover and Hamburg hold 12th and 14th spot respectively.

Anticipation for this matchday is high and although Dortmund currently trails Munich by four points, the side has been relatively successful in league play against Bayern.  Dortmund has the home pitch advantage and the strategy employed by Juergen Klopp and Pep Guardiola will play a big part.  Possession and solid defending will be a large part of this game and be a decisive factor in the outcome. Either way the fans in Dortmund will be treated to a delight. 

With FOX reaching an agreement with the Bundesliga for next season, the league is expanding its viewing audience in North America.  This will give viewers in the USA and Canada to follow the EPL, the Spanish League and the Bundesliga along with the MLS next season.


Friday 22 November

VfB Stuttgart vs Bor. Mönchengladbach   0-2

Saturday 23 November
   
1. FC Nürnberg vs VfL Wolfsburg       
FC Augsburg vs 1899 Hoffenheim       
Eintr. Braunschweig vs SC Freiburg       
Eintracht Frankfurt vs Schalke 04       
Hertha BSC vs Bayer Leverkusen       
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern München

Sunday 24 November
   
Hamburger SV vs Hannover 96       
Werder Bremen vs FSV Mainz 05   

Position------Team-------------------GP--W---D-----L-----GF/A-----Pts

1--------FC Bayern Muenchen-------12---10----2-----0------27-7-------32
2--------Borussia Dortmund----------12----9----1-----2------33:10------28
3--------Bayer Leverkusen------------12----9----1-----2-----27:14------28
4--------Borussia M'gladbach---------13----8----1-----4-----30:16------25
5--------VFL Wolfsburg---------------12----7----0-----5-----18:14-------21
6--------FC Schalke 04----------------12----5----2-----5-----22:24-------20
7------- Hertha BSC Berlin-----------12----5----3-----4-----20:16-------18
8-------VFB Stuttgart------------------13----4----4-----5-----24:23-------16
9-------Mainz 05-----------------------12----5----1-----6-----17:23-------16
10------Werder Bremen----------------12----4----3-----5----12:19--------15
11------Hannover 96-------------------12----4----2-----5-----13:18-------14
12------1899 Hoffenheim--------------12----3----4-----5-----28:28-------13
13----- FCAugsburg--------------------12----4----1-----7----13:23--------13
14------Hamburg------------------------12----3----3-----6-----26:29-------12
15------Eintracht Frankfurt------------12----2----4-----6-----14:21--------10
16------SC Freiburg--------------------12----1----5-----6-----13:24----------8
17------Eintracht Braunschweig------12----2----2-----8------8:23----------8
18------1. FC Nürnberg----------------12----0----7-----5-----15:25----------7

Bundesliga Matchday 7 Roundup - Dortmund remains on top

Borussia Dortmund remains on top of the table with a four goal lead over FC Bayern Muenchen.  Leverkusen trails the leaders with just one point.  SC Freiburg, which gave up five unanswered goals against Dortmund, continues to struggle near the basement of the league.  Newly promoted Hertha BSC Berlin edged out another win, their third of the season, to move into fifth spot in the top flight.  Hannover, which lost 2-0 to Leverkusen, remains in fourth spot, trailing Leverkusen by four points.

FC Augsburg vs Borussia Moenchengladbach  2-2

 Both Augsburg and Gladbach had three wins and three losses on their tally sheet prior to the match, with nine points after six games.  Augsburg's side, despite their low position at the end of last season, had either tied or lost by one goal in its matches.  The side is strong defensively.  Augsburg, with the support of the home crowd, started to pressure Gladbach from the start.  The guests relied on counters initially.  Gladbach had its first scoring opportunity when Arango fired the ball at the net and hit just under the crossbar.  Augsburg responded with a goal in the 27th minute, on a pass from Werner to Hahn, who put it away.  Four minutes later, in the 31st minute, Gladbach answered with a goal from Kruse. The second half continued to provide entertainment for the fans. Augsburg had a slight advantage, but Gladbach was able to convert its opportunities.  Hrgota gave the lead to Gladbach in the 71st minute, but Augsburg got the equalizer with Milik's goal just before the final whistle in the 88th minute.

Borussia Dortmund vs SC Freiburg 5-0

Marco Reus got a double pack, witih goals in the 35th and 45th minute. The two goal lead, coupled with Diagne's red card, pretty well sealed the deal for Dortmund at the end of the first half. Robert Lewandowski completed a double pack in the 58th and and 70th minute and Jakub Blaszczykowski sealed Freiburg's fate in the 79th minute, for a 5-0 Dortmund win.  Robert Lewandowski tallied his 60th Bundesliga goal.  With this win Dortmund consolidated its spot on top of the league,while Freiburg continues to struggle at the bottom of the league with just three points.

FC Bayern Muenchen vs VFL Wolfsburg 1-0

Bayern dominated the match from the start, but Wolfsburg's effort stopped the record champion from scoring. Pep Guardiola assembled a start assortment for his starting line-up, but it wasn't until Kroos and Schaquiri replaced Schweinsteiger and Arjen Robben that Mueller scored Bayern's only goal in the 63rd minute.  Wolfsburg seldom tested Manuel Neuer, although a close result could have resulted in an equalizer. Wolfsburg was solid in the defence.  Bayern remains in spot two, while Wolfsburg slides to ninth.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Hannover 96  2-0

Leverkusen demonstrated that they rightfully belonged to the elite of the Bundesliga. Goals by Rolfes (23rd) and Sam (37th) secured the three points for the Bayer side.  After the halftime lead, the club managed its lead and missed a couple of good opportunities to win even higher.  The win keeps Leverkusen in third place, just one point behind Dortmund and Bayern, but four points ahead of Hannover.  With six wins and one loss Leverkusen equals the wins of the top two.  Hannover remains in fourth spot for now, six points behind the leaders.

1899 Hoffenheim vs Schalke 04   3-3

Schalke started this season with big hopes, but with 1 win, two draws and four losses Schalke's hopes are dashed for now.  Schalke dominated the first half, with early goals by Prince Boateng (3rd) and Matip (13th).  Hoffenheim's Modste narrowed the scored in the 16th minute, but Schalke restored the two goal lead, when Hoeger made it 3- 1 in the 40th.   Firmino made it 3-2 in the 48th and Abraham got the equalizer for Hoffenheim in the 61st minute.  The point moves Hoffenheim into eighth spot, while Schalke moves into 13th.

Hertha BSC Berlin vs Mainz  05   3-1

Mainz put in a good performance in the first half, but it was all Berlin in the second.  Mainz too the lead in the eighth minute when Mueller hit the back of the net.  Mainz carried that lead to the halftime whistle.  Berlin scored three unanswered goals in the second half, with goals  by Allagui in the 48th and 73rd meeting and Ben-Hatira in the 74th. With this 3-1 win, Berlin, with three wins, two draws and two losses, Berlin currently holds fifth spot on the table.  With three wins and four losses Schalke  slipped to13 the spot.  Schalke was widely believed to be a top contender this season.  With ten points behind third placed Leverkusen, Schalke has a lot of work to do.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Hamburger SV 2-2

Frankfurt and Hamburg played to a 2-2 draw.  Flum took the lead for Frankfurt in the 31st minute, but Hamburg's Lasogga struck back three minutes into injury time in the first half, send the teams to the dressing room with a 1-1 draw.  Russ once again gave the lead to Frankfurt in the 54th minute.  Frankfurt managed to hang on to the lead until the 84th minute, when Jansen got the equalizer.  The single point didn't do much for either team.  With eight and five points, respectively the sides are well behind the leaders, in the 12th and 15th spot. Bremen moves into ninth spot, while Nuernberg is still elusive of a victory and remains in

Werder Bremen vs 1. FC Nuernberg  3-3

Nuernberg, once again, came back from behind to capture a point in Bremen.  Danbali's own goal in the eight  minute gave Werder the early lead and Eliamade it 2-0 in the 34th.  Nuernberg continued to battle and made it 2-1, when Kiothaki netted before the halfway mark. Drmic got the equalizer in the 53rd.  Elia, put Bremen ahead again in the 66th, but Nuernberg equalized with Hiousek's goal in the 70th minute.  While Bremen dominated much of the first 45, Nuernberg had a complete turn around in the second half.  With an attack happy Nuernberg and a less productive Bremen in the second 45, Nuernberg had more opportunities and was close several times in deciding the match in their favor.  Bremen moves into ninth spot, while Nuernberg is still elusive of a victory and has 5 draws on their record.

Eintracht Braunschweig vs VFB Stuttgart  0-4

Eintracht Braunschweig is still chasing its first win in seven starts.  The game was very much on even keel until halftime, Stuttgart shifted gears in the second half.  Ibisevic (40th) gave Stuttgart the 1-0 lead late in the first half .  Shortly into the second half, in the 50th minute, Maxim increased Stuttgart's lead to 2-0.  Traore, after several missed opportunities, finally got his well deserved goal to make it 3-0.  Harnik, after replacing Werner, netted  to make the final score 4-0.  Braunschweig has one point in seven games, with one draw and seven losses. Their goal difference is -16 and they continue to remain at the bottom of the league.  Stuttgart's win has moved the Schwaben into sixth spot.

Friday 27 September

FC Augsburg vs Borussia M'gladbach   2-2

Saturday 28 September

Borussia Dortmund vs SC Freiburg 5-0    
FC Bayern vs VfL Wolfsburg     1-0
Bayer Leverkusen vs Hannover 96     2-0
1899 Hoffenheim vs Schalke 04     3-3
Hertha BSC vs FSV Mainz 05     3-1
Eintracht Frankfurt vs Hamburger SV     2-2

Sunday 29 September
Werder Bremen vs Nürnberg    3-3 
Eintracht Braunschweig vs VFB Stuttgart  0-4


Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------7----6----1-----0------21:5-------19
2--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------7----6----1-----0------14-2-------19
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------7----6----0-----1------17:7-------18
4--------Hannover 96--------------------7----4----0-----3-----10:10------12
5------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------7----3----2-----2-----13:8--------11
6-------VFB Stuttgart--------------------7----3----1-----3-----15:9--------10 
7--------Borussia M'gladbach----------7----3----1-----3-----17:13-------10
8--------FCAugsburg--------------------7----3----1-----3------8:11-------10
9-------Werder Bremen------------------7----3----1-----3------8:11-------10 
10------1899 Hoffenheim--------------- 7----2----3-----2-----18:18-------9
11------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------7----3----0-----4-------9:9---------9
12-------Mainz 05-------------------------7----3----0-----4-----10:15-------9
13-------Eintracht Frankfurt--------------7----2----2-----3-----10:12-------8
14------FC Schalke 04-------------------7----1----2-----4-------9:17--------8
15------1. FC Nürnberg------------------7-----0----5-----2-----9:12----------5
16------Hamburg--------------------------7----1----2-----4-----13:18---------5
17------SC Freiburg----------------------7-----0----3-----4------8:17---------3
18------Eintracht Braunschweig--------7-----0----1-----6------3:19---------1

Bundesliga Matchday 6 Preview - Will Dortmund win six in a row?

Borussia Dortmund which is five for five this season will be chasing a new club record of six wins in as many starts.  Bayern Munich is the only other club in the league still undefeated, but have drawn one match, trailing the Borussen by two points.

Six clubs were involved in European group play this week, Borussia Dortmund, FC Bayern, Leverkusen and Schalke in the Champions League and Eintracht Frankfurt and SC Freiburg in the Euro League.  Matchday 1 of the Group stage had two winners and two losers.  Bayern Munich, as expected defeated CKSA Moscow 2-0, but Dortmund lost its encounter with Naples 2-1. Leverkusen was defeated by Manchester United 4-2, while Schalke 04 defeated Steaua 3-0.

In Euro League action Eintracht Frankfurt won its home match against Girandis Bordeaux convincingly 3-0.  SC Freiburg gave up a 2-0 lead over Liberec and walked away with just one point after Liberec equalized.  After matchday 1 the Bundesliga tally is three twins, one draw and two losses.


Bundesliga matchday six kicks off on Friday afternoon with Moenchengladbach hosting Eintracht Braunschweig. Eintracht is still chasing its first win in the Bundesliga, while Gladbach is 2 wins and three losses.  The odds are in favour of Gladbach.

Mönchengladbach’s eleven league goals so far this season have been shared among no fewer than eight players, Branimir Hrgota being the latest to get his name on the list.  Bundesliga.de

Dortmund, with five wins on its scorecard will be traveling to Nuernberg with three draws and on loss and 16th spot.  Dortmund will have to overcome its loss to Naples on Wednesday to defeat the Franken, who  are sure to put up a fight in an attempt to get their first win of the season.  It will be a difficult task for Dortmund, but if the side fires on all cylinders it should come out on top.

 For the first time in their history, Borussia Dortmund have started the Bundesliga season with five straight wins. That puts them in a select group alongside FC Bayern München (who have managed it on seven occasions), VfB Stuttgart, 1. FC Kaiserslautern, 1. FC Köln and 1. FSV Mainz 05.  Bundesliga.de

FC Bayern, after their victory midweek, will be traveling to Schalke.  Schalke is 1-1-3 and seems to have recovered from its early season misfortunes.  The match will be close and a draw is definitely possible for the Knappen.  Leverkusen travels to Mainz.  Both sides are  have earned 9 points and the match is sure to be a delight for the fans, with anything possible.

Hannover hosts Augsburg, again two clubs with 9 points.  Hannover should come out on top, but never underestimate the Bavarian side, which is sure to fight for at least one point.   The remaining two matches on Saturday features Hamburger SV vs Werder Bremen and VFL Wolfsburg vs Hoffenheim.  Hoffenheim has recovered from its season debut against Berlin and has since earned seven points, while Wolfsburg sits at six, with two wins and three losses.  The odds for a victory by both sides are quite good.  The edge goes to Wolfsburg as the home team.  Bremen has six points in five matches compared to Hamburg's four.  Both sides have a good chance to capture three points this weekend.  Can Hamburg overcome the home team advantage of Bremen?

 Hamburger SV have been the team of choice for target practice so far this season. HSV, who parted company with Thorsten Fink on Tuesday, have conceded 15 goals in their first five outings. Bundesliga.de

The matchday ends on Sunday, with Euro League contenders Eintracht Frankfurt and SC Freiburg taking on VFB Stuttgart and Hertha BSC Berlin.  SC Freiburg is still chasing its first victory this season while Berlin won two in their five starts.  Freiburg is not performing to the standard of last season and the question is if the side can put it together in time for the Berlin match.  The Euro League match has shown some serious attention lapses in the defence.  The Breisgau side has to overcome this if they want to defeat a lively Berlin side.  Frankfurts, Thursday performance demonstrated that the side has the ability to win important matches.  Both Frankfurt and Stuttgart have two wins to their credit and the game in the Daimler Benz arena should be a close one. The odds are on Frankfurt.

Two Japanese national team colleagues could line up against each other on Sunday when Gotoku Sakai's (pictured) VfB Stuttgart host Takashi Inui's Eintracht Frankfurt.  Bundesliga

On conclusion of matchday six the trends will have been established to guide the remainder of the season.  While Bayern and Dortmund lead the field by four points, Schalke and Leverkusen cannot be written off.  Good hunting.


Friday September 20

M'gladbach vs Eintracht Braunschweig  4-1

Saturday September 21
   
Hannover 96 vs FC Augsburg     
VfL Wolfsburg vs 1899 Hoffenheim   
Nürnberg vs Borussia Dortmund   
FSV Mainz 05 vs Bayer Leverkusen     
Hamburger SV vs Werder Bremen      Schalke 04 vs FC Bayern Muenchen
Sunday September 22

SC Freiburg vs Hertha BSC Berlin    
VfB Stuttgart vs Eintracht Frankfurt     


Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------5----5----0-----0------15:4-------15
2--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------5----4----1-----0--------9-2------13
3--------Borussia M'gladbach---------6----3----0-----3------15:11-------9

4--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------5----4----0-----1------11:6--------9
5--------Hannover 96--------------------5----3----0-----2------8:7---------9
6--------Mainz 05------------------------5----3----0-----2------8:8---------9
7--------FCAugsburg--------------------5----3----0-----2------5:7---------9
8------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------5----2----1-----2------9:6---------7
9-------1899 Hoffenheim----------------5----2----2-----1----14:13--------7
10------FC Schalke 04-------------------5----1----1-----3------6:10--------7
11------VFB Stuttgart--------------------5----2----0-----3-----10:8---------6
12------VFL Wolfsburg------------------5----2----0-----3-------7:7---------6
13------Eintracht Frankfurt--------------5----2----0-----3-------7:9---------6
14------Werder Bremen------------------5----2----0-----3-------3:4---------6
15------Hamburg--------------------------5----1----1-----3-----11:14--------4
16------1. FC Nürnberg------------------5-----0----3-----1------5:8----------3
17------SC Freiburg----------------------5-----0----2-----3------7:11---------2
18------Eintracht Braunschweig--------6-----0----1-----5------3:15---------1

Bundesliga Matchday 5 Roundup - Borussia Dortmund on top with five wins

Borussia Dortmund retained the top of the Bundesliga with five victories in as many starts.  Two goals each by  Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Robert Lewandoswki helped thrash Hamburger SV 6-2 after Dortmund's early lead was erased for a 2-2 draw four minutes into the second half.
Mandzukic and Frank Ribery scored one each against Hannover to keep Bayern in second spot ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, which won its match against visiting Wolfsburg 3-1, with two goals by  Stefan Kiessling and one by Sam.
Mainz 05 dropped its match against Schalke 04, when Kevin Boateng scored in the 34th.  Frankfurt rolled over Bremen 3-0 and Augsburg defeated SC Freiburg 2-1.  In Friday's match VFB Stuttgart narrowly defeated Hertha BSC Berlin 1-0, holding off Hertha with a strong defence.

Hertha BSC Berlin vs VFB Stuttgart  0-1 

Although Hertha created more opportunities, Berlin was failed to convert those to goals, largely due to Stuttgart's Sven Ulreich.  Stuttgart played solid in the defence, led by Ulreich and converted one of two chances by Christian Gentner in the 49th minute.  This was enough to take home three points for the second win this season and a move into the top ten.  Berlin remains in seventh spot.


FC Bayern Muenchen vs Hannover 96  2-0

Pep Guardiola deployed a 4-2-4-2 formation for this match, taking Phillip Lahm out of his familiar right back position and filling in for the recovering Bastian Schweinsteiger.  Thomas Mueller took up the right fullback position.  While dominating the match from the outset, Bayern had difficulty to put the ball into the net.  Hannover put in a great performance in the first half, but was unable to maintain the momentum in the second go around.  Arjen Robben initiated both goals, one in the 51st with a pass to Mandzukic and the second to Franck Ribery in the 61st to give Bayern its fourth victory of the campaign.  Bayern remains undefeated with one draw and in second spot, while Hannover remains in fourth with nine points.  

Bayer Leverkusen vs VFL Wolfsburg 3-1. 

Stefan Kiessling's two goals ( 65th, 90th) and Sam's (24th)  brought home the fourth victory for Leverkusen this season and a tie by points with Bayern Munich.  Wolfsburg started the match with a slight advantage over Leverkusen, but the Leverkusen side fought back and takes the lead with Sam's goal in the 24th.  Olic got the equalizer for Wolfsburg in the 39th for the 1-1 halftime draw.  Stefan Kiessling scored his third and fourth of the campaign to convincingly defeat Wolfsburg 3-1.  Leverkusen remains in the top three with just one loss out of five.  Wolfsburg drops to 11th. 

Werder Bremen vs Eintracht Frankfurt 0-3

This was not Bremen's day.  The Hanseaten should have played on Friday the 13th. Di Santo saw the red card in the first 45, Aaron Hunt missed a penalty kick, while Proedl found the back of his own net in the 77th.  Frankfurt took charge of the match from the outset and Kadiec's goals in the 14th and 34th minute gave the Hessen a 2-0 halftime lead.  Proedl gave Frankfurt the 3-0 win over 90 minutes. This match should set the stage for Frankfurt's Champion's League debut against Bordeaux.

Mainz 05 vs Schalke 04   0-1

For a Bundesliga match, this can be considered as one of the weakest performances by both sides. Kevin Prince Boateng gave Schalke the lead and eventual victory with his goal in the 34th minute. Mainz put in a poor performance before a  home crowd and were unable to get their counter offensive going. Schalke will have to put in a better performance next week in Champions League play, especially the ability to convert good counters into goals

FC Augsburg vs SC Freiburg 2-1

After just missing relegation last season, Augsburg has now won three consecutive games.  Mehmedi scored for Freiburg just one minute into the second, but Altintop (62nd) and Werner (89th) ensured a well deserved 2-1 win over Freiburg.  Werner came in as a substitute in the 74th.  Augsburg with nine points is in sixth spot, while Freiburg with just two is in 17th spot.

Borussia Dortmund vs Hamburger SV  6-2

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave Dortmund the go ahead goal in the 19th minute followed by the second by Mikhitaryan in the 22nd for an early 2-0 lead.  Hamburg fought back and equaled the match with goals by Lam(16th) and Westermann in the 49th.  After that it was all Dortmund with Robert Lewandowski scoring two and Aubameyang and Reus netting once.   The 6-2 victory was well deserved and keep Dortmund on top of the league with a two point lead, while Hamburg slips into 15th spot.  This was undoubtedly the top match and by far the best match of this matchday.  Dortmund took control of the match from the start and demonstrated that the side played as a well oiled machine. 

Hoffenheim narrowly defeated Moenchengladbach 2-1 on Sunday.  While Gladbach pushed hard for the equalizer, Hoffenheim's defence stood strong.  Braunschweig picked up its first point of the season against a mediocre Nuernberg side.  While Eintracht was more agressive it was unable to finish the job.  Nuernberg can chalk it up to winning a point away from home, a point that may prove valuable in the future.

Matchday 5 - 13 and 14 September

13 September 2013

Hertha BSC vs VfB Stuttgart  0-2

14 September 2013

Bayern München vs Hannover 96      2-0  
Bayer Leverkusen vs VfL Wolfsburg  3-1  
Werder Bremen vs Eintracht Frankfurt    0-3
FSV Mainz 05 vs Schalke 04        0-1
FC Augsburg vs SC Freiburg       2-1 
Borussia Dortmund vs Hamburger SV  6-2

15 September   

1899 Hoffenheim vs Bor. Mönchengladbach       2-1 
Eintr. Braunschweig vs 1. FC Nürnberg  1-1


Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------5----5----0-----0------15:4-------15
2--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------5----4----1-----0--------9-2------13
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------5----4----0-----1------11:6--------9
4--------Hannover 96--------------------5----3----0-----2------8:7---------9
5--------Mainz 05------------------------5----3----0-----2------8:8---------9
6--------FCAugsburg--------------------5----3----0-----2------5:7---------9
7------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------5----2----1-----2------9:6---------7
8-------1899 Hoffenheim----------------5----2----2-----1----14:13--------7
9--------FC Schalke 04------------------5----1----1-----3------6:10--------7
10------VFB Stuttgart--------------------5----2----0-----3-----10:8---------6
11------Borussia M'gladbach------------5----2----0-----3-----11:10--------6
12------VFL Wolfsburg------------------5----2----0-----3-------7:7---------6
13------Eintracht Frankfurt--------------5----2----0-----3-------7:9---------6
14------Werder Bremen------------------5----2----0-----3-------3:4---------6
15------Hamburg--------------------------5----1----1-----3-----11:14--------4
16------1. FC Nürnberg------------------5-----0----3-----1------5:8----------3
17------SC Freiburg----------------------5-----0----2-----3------7:11---------2
18------Eintracht Braunschweig--------5-----0----1-----4------2:11---------1

Bundesliga matchday 5 preview - Will Dortmund make it five victories?

 Matchday 5 kicks off on Friday evening, with Borussia Dortmund having won their first four games and Bayern Munich with three wins and a draw.  Can Borrusia Dortmund continue to win when they meet Hamburger SV on Saturday?  Both Dortmund and Bayern play at home, but have formidable opponents that could take one or all three points from the Champions League finalists.

The matchday comes on the heels of international week, where Germany, composed of player from both Dortmund and Bayern, walked away with victories over Austria and Faroe Islands, clearing the path to World Cup 2014 qualification.

Under Juergen Klopp's guidance, Dortmund has kicked off on a path toward the league championship, while FC Bayern, with its new coach Pep Guardiola is adjusting to a new system and although dominating in every match, the club has had difficulty in converting this into goals.  With power houses like Ribery, Mueller, Robben and defenders like David Alaba and Phillip Lahm, the oppostion, for the most part has been concentrating on their defensive game.  Both Dortmund and Bayern are faced with breaking down the opposition's defence.

When Stuttgart meets Hertha BSC Berlin on Friaday evening in the Olympic Stadium, the side will be chasing its second win under its new coach and move up in the standings.  Berlin, a reentry to the Bundesliga this season, has two wins and two losses with 9-5 goals.  A win would keep the side in contact with the league leaders.  Regardless of the outcome, the match should be a delight for the fans.

Stefan Kiessling and Leverkusen host VFL Wolfsburg.  Currently in third spot, Leverkusen has a good chance of being competitive for the championship this year. With three wins and one loss the side trails Munich by one point.  Wolfsburg has accumulated two wins and two losses in their first four matches and Leverkusen is the clear favourite for this match.

Werder Bremen hosts Eintracht Frankfurt.  Last year's Cinderella team Frankfurt has barely kept its head above water with one win and three losses, while Bremen has won two of four.  The home advantage has to go to the Hanseaten.  FSV Mainz host Schalke 04.  Mainz has had an excellent start to the season and like Leverkusen won its first three, before giving up three points on matchay 4. Schalke, considered one of the top contenders, had a disappointing start to the season with one win, a tie and two looses.  Can the Knappen change their fortune in Mainz?  The remaining Saturday match has Freiburg traveling to Augsburg.  Augsburg, with a fiesty attitude, has two wins and two losses in the first four, while Freiburg had a disappointing start with two draws and two losses.  In Augsburg the men from southern Germany will be challenged to go home with a victory.  The edge goes to Augsburg.

Sunday has two matches on tab, with Hoffenheim hosting Borussia Moenchengladbach and Nuernberg traveling to Braunschweig.  Gladbach will be looking for their third victory in Hoffenheim and the men from Sinsheim for their second.  This should be a close match.  Braunschweig, newly promoted is still looking for its first victory when Nuernberg takes to the pitch.  Nuernberg has not had a convincing start to the season and currently sits in 17th spot with just two points.  If Braunschweig will walk away with a victory, this is their chance.  Nuernberg is motivated to leave the bottom of the league.  This match should be interesting.

Predicting outcomes in the Bundesliga is difficult.  There is never a matchday without surprises.  One can guarantee though that based on past history this matchday should see lots of goals.  Who will be on top on Saturday?  Your guess is as  good as mine.  GolTV Canada will be broadcasting some of the matches on Saturday and Sunday.


 Matchday 5 - 13 and 14 September

13 September 2013

Hertha BSC vs VfB Stuttgart  0-1

14 September 2013

Bayern München vs Hannover 96        
Bayer Leverkusen vs VfL Wolfsburg    
Werder Bremen vs Eintracht Frankfurt    
FSV Mainz 05 vs Schalke 04        
FC Augsburg vs SC Freiburg        
Borussia Dortmund vs Hamburger SV  

15 September     
1899 Hoffenheim vs Bor. Mönchengladbach        
Eintr. Braunschweig vs 1. FC Nürnberg


Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------4----4----0-----0-------9:2-------12
2--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------4----3----1-----0-------7-2-------10
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------4----3----0-----1-------8:5--------9
4--------Hannover 96--------------------4----3----0-----1------8:6---------9
5--------Mainz 05------------------------4----3----0-----1------8:7---------9
6------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------5----2----1-----2------9:6---------7
7--------Borussia M'gladbach-----------4----2----0-----2----10:8---------6
8-------VFB Stuttgart-------------------4----2----0-----3-----10:8---------6
8--------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------4----2----0-----2------6:4---------6
9--------Werder Bremen-----------------4----2----0-----2------3:1---------6
10-------FCAugsburg--------------------4----2----0-----2------3:6---------6
11-------1899 Hoffenheim--------------4----1----2-----1-----12:12--------5
12-------Hamburg------------------------4----1----1-----2-------9:8---------4
13-------FC Schalke 04------------------4----1----1-----2-------6:9---------4
15-------Eintracht Frankfurt-------------4----1----0-----3-------4:9---------3
16-------SC Freiburg---------------------4----0----2-----2-------6:9---------2
17-------1. FC Nürnberg-----------------4----0----2-----1-------4:7---------2
18-------Eintracht Braunschweig-------4----0----0-----4-------1:9---------0

Bundesliga Matchday 4 Preview 27 August - 1 September

Bundesliga Matchday 4 will be stretched from Tuesday to Sunday in consideration of Bayern Munich's Champions League Supercup encounter with Chelsea on Friday August 30.  There is also midweek activity for Eintracht Frankfurt against Quarabag and VFB Stuttgart against Rijeka in the Euro Leauge Playoff round.  Thursday FC Schalke 04 travels to PAOK in the Champions League Qualifying round.  The Champions League Group Stage draw will be made on Thursday as well.

This week's Bundesliga opener will be on Tuesday with FC Bayern traveling to Freiburg to continue on its path of a perfect record in four matchday.  Freiburg will have a voice in this and with only one point will be determined to defeat Bayern at home.  Bayern's new acquisition Thiago will be out for seven weeks due to a ligament injury, which requires surgery.  Mario Goetze made his debut with Bayern against Nuernberg, but still requires game fitness.  Pep Guardiola will also have to take Friday's game against Chelsea into consideration.  Bayern is the clear favourite in Freiburg and should win by two goals.

Four teams, Dortmund, Leverkusen, Bayern and Mainz have earned all three points in three matchdays.  Dortmund travels to Frankfurt on Sunday and is the clear favourite.  If Dortmund can take care of its defensive side, the Borussen should win by at least two goals.  Leverkusen travels to Schalke on Saturday.  Schalke has a match on Thursday and has not played up to its potential so far this season.  The extra stress of the Euro League will be a factor for Schalke and Leverkusen seems to be firing on all cylinders.  The nod has to go to Kiessling and company.

FSV Mainz travels to Hannover on Saturday and this match could go either way.  A slight home game advantage goes to Hannover.  VFB Stuttgart and Eintracht Braunschweig are still chasing their first point, having lost the first three season matches.  Stuttgart, which plays on Thursday in the Euro Leauge also hosts Hoffenheim on Sunday.  This is a game that could go either way and may end up in draw.  Braunschweig travels to Hamburg on Saturday.  Braunschweig has lost its first three matches, while Hamburg only has one point.  A slight advantage goes to Hamburg.

The remaining two matches see Nuernberg hosting Augsburg.  Nuernberg has drawn two matches and lost one, while Augsburg lost two and won one.   This is another Bavarian derby match and should provide ample entertainment to fans.  No matter how it turns out it should be close with home team advantage to Nuernberg. Gladbach hosts Bremen and Bremen has won two matches and lost one.  Gladbach won one and lost two.  This should be another nail biter.  Berlin travels to Wolfsburg for a match that should be interesting.  Can Berlin continue to remain undefeated. With seven points in three starts, Hertha has had an excellent start in the Bundesliga. 

This week's question is whether or not the front runners can win their fourth consecutive match and if Stuttgart and Eintracht Braunschweig can finally win some points. All eyes will be on Friday's FC Bayern vs Chelsea game, when the Bundesliga once again measures itself against the Barclay's Premier League.   Bayern will be ready. 

Tuesday 27 August

SC Freiburg vs Bayern München 1-1

Saturday 31 August

Bor. Mönchengladbach vs Werder Bremen
Hannover 96 vs FSV Mainz 05   
VfL Wolfsburg vs Hertha BSC   
1. FC Nürnberg vs FC Augsburg   
Hamburger SV vs Eintracht Braunschweig  
Schalke 04 vs Bayer Leverkusen

Sunday 1 September
 
VfB Stuttgart vs 1899 Hoffenheim   
Eintracht Frankfurt vs Borussia Dortmund

    
Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------4----3----1-----0-------7-2-------10
2--------Borussia Dortmund-----------3----3----0-----0-------7:1--------9
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------3----3----0-----0-------8:3--------9
4--------Mainz 05-----------------------3----3----0-----0-------7:3--------9
5------- Hertha BSC Berlin------------2----2----1-----0------9:3---------7
6--------Werder Bremen----------------3----2----0-----1------2:1---------6
7--------Hannover 96--------------------3----2----0-----1------4:3---------6
8--------1899 Hoffenheim---------------3----1----2-----0-----10:6--------5
9--------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------3----1----0-----2------4:4---------3
10-------Borussia M'gladbach-----------3----1----0-----2------5:7--------3
11--------Eintracht Frankfurt------------3----1----0-----2-------3:7--------3
12--------FCAugsburg-------------------3----1----0-----2--------2:6--------3
13-------1. FC Nürnberg-----------------3----0----2-----1-------4:6---------2
14-------SC Freiburg---------------------4----0----2-----2-------6:9---------2
15-------Hamburg------------------------3----0----1-----2-------5:8---------1
16--------FC Schalke 04-----------------3----0----1-----2-------4:9---------1
17--------VFB Stuttgart------------------3----0----0-----3-------3:6---------0
18--------Eintracht Braunschweig------3----0----0-----3-------1:5---------0

Bundesliga Matchday 3 - Dortmund, Bayern, Leverkusen, Mainz lead the pack

Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, FC Bayern Muenchen and Mainz 05 won their three opening matches in the new season and are ahead of the field, leading with nine points. One goal separates Dortmund from Leverkusen and Bayern, while Mainz trails by two.

Borussia Dortmund vs SV Werder Bremen 1-0

Despite Borussia's overwhelming dominance over Bremen it wasn't until the second half that the Champions League finalists was able to get on the scoreboard.  Robert Lewandowski scored in the 55th minute to earn the three points for Dortmund and secure its lead in the Bundesliga.  Werder Bremen to its credit played a compact game in the defence and avoided a roll over.  Dortmund managed to open the Bremen defence more often in the second half, but was unable to convert some excellent scoring opportunities. Despite the loss, Bremen remains in sixth spot.

FC Bayern Muenchen vs 1. FC Nuernberg  2-0

Another derby and another win for the men from southern Bavaria.  The match wasn't without difficulty for Bayern though.  Pep Guardiola opted to start Mario Goetze and Thiago for this match, leaving Thomas Mueller and Toni Kroos on the bench.  Bayern had difficulty cracking the Nuernberg defence in the first half and David Alaba, who normally is a sure bet for penalty kick, missed one in the 33rd minute.  Thus the sides were scoreless at the half.  Bayern continued its domination in the second half but it wasn't until Thomas Mueller came in for Thiago in the 62nd minute and Toni Kroos came on for Mario Goetze in the 68th that Bayern's fortunes improved.  In the 69th minute Ribery put the European champion on the scoreboard and Arjen Robben put Bayern ahead 2-0 in the 78th.  This leaves Bayern third place with one goal behind Dortmund in the top spot.  Nuernberg moved to 11th spot.


Bayer Leverkusen vs Borussia Moenchengladbach 4-2

In an exciting match Bayer Leverkusen went on to take its third victory in the new season.  Right from the start Leverkusen took control and lead 2-0 by the 28th minute with goals by Kiessling (23rd) and Sam (28th).  This is how the teams went into the half time break.  Gladbach showed a breath of fresh air in the second half and got the equalizer by the 57th minute.  Stranzl scored in the 54th minute and Arango tied the game in the 57th.  After that it was mostly Leverkusen, which edged out more scoring opportunities.  Sam scored the 3-2 at the 60 minute mark and Castro put Leverkusen ahead 4-2 in the 72nd minute.  Leverkusen remains in second place, while Gladbach moved to tenth. 

Hannover 96 vs Schalke 04 2-1

Trouble keeps mounting for the Schalke side.  The club that is vying for a spot in the Champions League dropped another three points and currently holds 14th spot in the league, a place they would not have envisioned to be in three weeks ago.  Hannover was the dominating team in the first half and this was partly due to Hoewedes red card in the 14th minute.  In fact Hannover which led with goals by Huszti (14th) and Diout (42nd) after the first half could have had a much higher lead. Schalke made a courageous attempt in the second half and Szalai made the score a respectable 2-1 in the 55th minute.  Hannover was able to hang on an capture the three points and move into sixth spot. 

1899 Hoffenheim vs SC Freiburg 3-3 


Both teams approached the game with vigour.  Sejad Salihovic scored the opener for Hoffenheim in the ninth, unfortunately it was also accompanied by a send off for overenthusiastic celebration.  Despite the early lead, Freiburg wasn't phased and got the equalizer in the 13th minute with Oliver Sorg's goal. Kevin Volland again got the lead for Hoffenheim in the 25th minute.  Karim Guede got the equalizer for Freiburg in the 29th for a 2-2 score at the half.  The second half continued to be entertaining and Freis put Freiburg ahead for the first time in the game in the 65th minute. But once again Hoffenheim got the equalizer in the 77th minute when Strobl got a netter.   Hoffenheim is currently in 7th spot and Freiburg earned its first point for the season and is in 13th spot.

Main 05 vs VFL Wolfsburg 2-0

Mainz is one of four teams that have now won all three games of the new season.  Wolfsburg was the better team on the pitch unitl Choupo-Moting scored for Mainz in the 60th minute.  This was followed by a second yellow card and a send off of former Bayern player Gustavo in the 64th minute.  Mainz secured the 2-0 win in the 78th minute.  This was a hard pill to swallow for Wolfsburg, which has now slipped to ninth spot. Mainz remains in fourth.

Hertha BSC Berlin vs Hamburger SV 1-0

In hard fought match, which boiled down to hard work, Berlin came out on top of Hamburg.  Hamburg did not impress over all compared to the newly promoted club.  Offense was far and in between and it wasn't until Ramos scored for Berlin in the 74th minute that Hamburg attempted a real push, which was too little to late. Hamburg has one point in three games and rests in 12th spot, while Berlin after three games with seven points occupies fifth.

Eintracht Braunschweig vs Eintracht Frankfurt  0-2

Frankfurt was the dominating side from the start and put pressure on Braunschweig throughout the match.  During the first 45 the side was unable to convert opportunities into goals.  A revitalized Frankfurt side came out in the second half and Alexander Meier, who has scored four of Frankfurts six competition games this season scored in the 52nd minute.   Stefan Aigner netted in the 62nd, giving Frankfurt its first win this season.  Frankfurt moves into 11th place, while Braunschweig is currently in 17th spot.

FC Augsburg vs VFB Stuttgart  2-1

Stuttgart lost their third match of the season and continues to linger at the bottom  of the league.  For Augsburg it was their first victory of the season, primarily due to it more vigorous engagement and quick counters.  Altintop and Callston-Bracker scored for Augsburg in the 6th and 36th minute before Ibesivic narrowed the score to 2-1 just before the half in the 42nd minute.  Augsburg started the second half as they finished the first and Stuttgart became shorthanded after Traore was send off on a direct red card in the 70th minute.  The last 45 minutes belonged to Stuttgart, unfortunately it was too little too late.

23 August

Borussia Dortmund vs Werder Bremen    1-0

24 August

FC Bayern vs Nürnberg     2-0
Bayer Leverkusen vs M'gladbach     4-2
Hannover 96 vs Schalke 04     2-1
1899 Hoffenheim vs SC Freiburg     3-3
FSV Mainz 05 vs VfL Wolfsburg     2-0
Hertha BSC vs Hamburger SV   1-0

25 August
   
Eintracht Braunschweig vs Eintracht Frankfurt  0-2
FC Augsburg vs VFB Stuttgart  2-1

Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------3----3----0-----0-------7:1--------9
2--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------3----3----0-----0-------8:3--------9
3--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------3----3----0-----0-------6-1--------9
4--------Mainz 05-----------------------3----3----0-----0-------7:3--------9
5------- Hertha BSC Berlin------------2----2----1-----0------9:3---------7
6--------Werder Bremen----------------3----2----0-----1------2:1---------6
7--------Hannover 96--------------------3----2----0-----1------4:3---------6
8--------1899 Hoffenheim---------------3----1----2-----0-----10:6--------5
9--------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------3----1----0-----2------4:4---------3
10-------Borussia M'gladbach-----------3----1----0-----2------5:7--------3
11--------Eintracht Frankfurt------------3----1----0-----2-------3:7--------3
12--------FCAugsburg-------------------3----1----0-----2--------2:6--------3
13-------1. FC Nürnberg-----------------3----0----2-----1------4:6---------2
14-------Hamburg------------------------3----0----1-----2-------5:8---------1
15-------SC Freiburg---------------------3----0----1-----2-------5:8---------1
16--------FC Schalke 04-----------------3----0----1-----2-------4:9---------1
17--------VFB Stuttgart------------------3----0----0-----3-------3:6---------0
18--------Eintracht Braunschweig------3----0----0-----3-------1:5---------0

Bundesliga Matchday 3 Preview 23-25 August 2013

Bundesliga matchday 3 gets under way on Friday afternoon when Borussia Dortmund hosts Werder Bremen.  The two sides are among five clubs that have won their first two matchdays.  Dormund leads the five team pack by goal difference, while Bremen is at the bottom of the  unbeaten pack.  Bayer Leverkusen, FC Bayern and Mainz 05 are the remaining three. 

The matchday three opener is important, since one of the two or both sides will give up points.  Dortmund with the home game advantage and last season's Champions League finalist, has the clear advantage over Bremen and should emerge victorious.  Juergen Klopp with his star alignment will want to make sure of that.  Bremen has won its first two matches by one goal each and will have to do much better against the Borussen.  While improving its scoring ability the defence will have to be solid.

On Saturday FC Bayern Muenchen hosts 1.FC Nuernberg in the Bavarian derby, which has a long history.  FC Bayern has been the overwhelming winner of the derby, but Nuernberg has been known to pull out all the stops.  Bayern trails Dortmund by two goals with 4-1 goals in two matches.  Nuernberg currently holds seventh place in the top flight having drawn their first two matches.  Regardless the match will be interesting and Bayern is the hands down favourite.

Bayer Leverkusen hosts Borussia Moenchengladbach and currently is tied with Bayern for goals with 4-1 after two games.  Gladbach won one match and lost the other with goals even at 3-3.   Leverkusen is the favourite in this match, but the side should not underestimate Gladbach, which held Bayern to one goal last weekend.  This should be a close match.

Mainz 05 hosts Wolfburg and has won its first two matches with a goal difference of 5-3.  Wolfsburg on the other hand has won one and lost one with a respectable goal difference of 4-2.  Mainz has had an excellent start to the season and this match should be a particular tough challenge.   Wolfsburg has the ability to defeat Mainz.  No clear favourite in this match.

Schalke will be traveling to ¸Hannover.  The club from Gelsenkirchen, considered one of the top four sides in the Bundesliga has only gained one point in two matches.  In its Champions League debut on Wednesday, the Royal Blues put in a disappointing performance, only getting a draw at home against PAOK.  With Klass Jan Huntelaar injured, if the Knappen can come up with a successful match in Hannover is a good question.  Hannover has won one and lost one match and is currently in tenth spot.  This will be a closely contested match, which could end up in a  draw or a win for Hannover.

Hoffenheim and Freiburg are both trying to establish themselves in the upper half of the league.  Hoffenheim has a win and a draw,  while Freiburg has lost their first two starts and finds itself in the bottom three. The match in Sinsheim should provide good entertainment and tension for the fans and should end up with a narrow win or a draw.

Scheduled on Sunday, Eintracht meets Eintracht.  That is Eintracht Braunschweig hosts Eintracht Frankfurt.  Braunschweig, new to the Bundesliga this year is still without a point, while Frankfurt is at the bottom of the league after two starts and have scored one goal, but have been scored on seven times.  A positive sign was the sides Euro League debute against Quarabag, where Frankfurt won 2-0.  How the stress of travel affects the side remains to be seen.  It would appear however that Alexander Meier has found his scoring boots.  Frankfurt should win this match.

The final match on Sunday has Stuttgart traveling down the road to Augsburg.  Both teams have not netted a point in two games.  Augsburg has been scored on five times, while scoring none.  Stuttgart scored twice and took four goals.  The result is a toss up with both sides having equal chances to pick up the three points.  The joker for Stuttgart is how the side was affected in its disappointing Euro League debut. 

It is still too early to examine trends within the league, but each matchday comes closer.  Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and FC Bayern Muenchen are on target.  Schalke, Frankfurt and Stuttgart have some work to do.



23 August

Borussia Dortmund vs Werder Bremen    1-0

24 August

FC Bayern vs Nürnberg    
Bayer Leverkusen vs M'gladbach    
Hannover 96 vs Schalke 04    
1899 Hoffenheim vs SC Freiburg    
FSV Mainz 05 vs VfL Wolfsburg    
Hertha BSC vs Hamburger SV

25 August
   
Eintracht Braunschweig vs Eintracht Frankfurt
FC Augsburg vs VFB Stuttgart  

Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------3----3----0-----0-------7:1--------9
2--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------2----2----0-----0-------4:1-------6
3--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------2----2----0-----0-------4-1--------6
4--------Mainz 05------------------------2----2----0-----0------5:3--------6
5--------Werder Bremen----------------3----2----0-----1------2:1---------6
6------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------2----1----1-----0------8:3---------4
7--------1899 Hoffenheim---------------2----1----1-----0------7:3--------4
8--------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------2----1----0-----1------4:2---------3
9--------Borussia M'gladbach-----------2----1----0-----1------3:3---------3
10-------Hannover 96--------------------2----1----0-----1-------2:2--------3
11-------1. FC Nürnberg-----------------2----0----2-----0------4:4---------2
12--------Hamburg------------------------2----0----1-----1-------4:8--------1
13--------FC Schalke 04-----------------2----0----1-----1-------3:7---------1
14-------VFB Stuttgart-------------------2----0----0-----2-------2:4--------0
15--------Eintracht Braunschweig------2----0----0-----2-------1:3--------0
16-------SC Freiburg---------------------2----0----0-----2------2:5---------0
17--------FC Augsburg-------------------2----0----0-----2-------0:5--------0
18--------Eintracht Frankfurt------------2----0----0-----2-------1:7--------0

Bundesliga Matchday 2 Preview -17 August 2013

Matchday one over all had no major surprises, with the exception of  newcomer Hertha BSC Berlin's win over Eintracht Frankfurt with six to one goals and a first place berth.  Dortmund, Leverkusen and Bayern took the next three spots as expected. Schalke only managed a draw against Hamburg. 

What will the second matchday bring?  All games this week will will be played on Saturday and Sunday, due to  Germany's friendly against Paraguay.  Dortmund, Leverkusen and Bayern will be looking for their second win and increasing their goal difference.  For Eintracht Braunschweig it will be a fight to hang on for a draw in their first encounter with Dortmund.  Hertha BSC Berlin travels to Nuernberg in the hope of winning their first away match and to improve its balance sheet to maintain the lead.

Bayern is in Frankfurt on Saturday and will endeavour to duplicate Berlin's success, while Frankfurt will make an attempt to move out of last place.  Leverkusen travels to Stuttgart, which lost its opening match in Mainz last weekend.  Schalke travels to Wolfsburg in an attempt to hang on to one of the top positions.  Schalke had to settle for a draw last weekend.

Predictions

Three matches will be featured on goltv.  On Saturday Eintracht Frankfurt vs Bayern Muenchen will be broadcast live at 9:25 am EDT, followed by Borussia Moenchengladbach vs Hannover 96 at 12:25 pm EDT.  Sunday features Borussia Dortmund vs Eintracht Braunschweig at 11:25 am  EDT.

Bayern is the favourite in Frankfurt, but don't discount the ability of Frankfurt on its home pitch.  Bayern should win by two goals.   Gladbach put in a stellar performance in the Allianz Arena last weekend and with the same engagement and courage should trump over Hannover 96.   This will be a close match and should result in a draw.

Borussia Dormund should easily collect another three points against Braunschweig. Will Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang put in another strong performance as he did in his debut match last week?  Dortmund's new acquisition got a hat trick during his debut match.

Schalke 04 travels to Wolfsburg and should pick up the three points.   Wolfsburg starts this season near the bottom of the league.  The factory team will try to get up on the table, but Schalke is the clear favourite.  Bremen hosts Augsburg, which lost last week to a well oiled Dortmund team, while Wolfsburg edged out a narrow win over Braunschweig.  A spirited Augsburg team could walk away with three point or at least split the points.

All odds are off in the Freiburg/Mainz game, but a draw is the most likely outcome.  Hamburg should easily defeat Hoffenheim based on last week's performance of both club.  Both teams earned one point during their opening matches last weekend.

Nuernberg hosts Hertha BSC Berlin on Sunday and it will be interesting to see if Berlin can repeat last week's performance.  A slight edge goes to Berlin. 

Regardless of eventual results, the venues will be sold out and there will be surprises on this matchday as well.  The scramble will be on for the top clubs in the league to solidify their lead. 

Matchday 1 results




Saturday August 17, 2013

VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen     
VfL Wolfsburg vs Schalke 04     
Werder Bremen vs FC Augsburg     
SC Freiburg vs FSV Mainz 05     
Hamburger SV vs 1899 Hoffenheim     
Eintracht Frankfurt vs FC Bayern   
M'gladbach vs Hannover 96

Sunday 18 August
  
Nürnberg vs Hertha BSC     
Borussia Dortmund vs E. Braunschweig



Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts

1------- Hertha BSC Berlin------------1----1----0-----0-------6:1--------3
2--------Borussia Dortmund-----------1----1----0-----0-------4:0--------3
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------1----1----0-----0------3:1--------3
4--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------1----1----0-----0 ------3:1--------3
5--------Hannover 96-------------------1----1----0-----0-------2:0--------3
6--------Mainz 05------------------------1----1----0-----0------3:2---------3
7--------Werder Bremen----------------1----1----0-----0------1:0---------3
8--------FC Schalke 04-----------------1----0----1-----0-------3:3--------1
8--------Hamburg------------------------1----0----1-----0-------3:3--------1
10-------1. FC Nürnberg----------------1----0----1-----0------2:2---------1
10-------1899 Hoffenheim--------------1----0----1-----0------2:2---------1
12-------VFB Stuttgart------------------1----0----0-----1-------2:3--------0
13-------Eintracht Braunschweig------1----0----0-----1-------0:1--------0
14-------Borussia M'gladbach----------1----0----0-----1------1:3---------0
15-------SC Freiburg---------------------1----0----0-----1------1:3---------0
16-------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------1----0----0-----1------0:2---------0
17--------FC Augsburg-------------------1----0----0-----1-------0:4--------0
18--------Eintracht Frankfurt------------1----0----0-----1-------1:6--------0

Bundesliga matchday 1 - What was revealed.

Bundesliga matchday one was true to its given name "Torfabrik" (goal factory).  37 goals were scored in nine matches, averaging around four goals per match.

Bayern, Dortmund and Leverkusen were true to form, all winning their openers. Schalke exchanged blows with Hamburg, but in the end had to settle for a draw.   The debut of the two newcomers, Hertha BSC Berlin and Eintracht Braunschweig ended with an overwhelming victory for Berlin, but Braunschweig gave up a tear jerker to Bremen.

Borussia Dortmund has set the pace for the Bundesliga race by maintaining a clean sheet.  While FC Augsburg, which barely escaped relegation put up a stellar fight, its defence was no match for Dortmund's new acquisition Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who got his first hattrick during his debut appearance.   While Bayern only has two goals in the plus column after their 3-1 win over Gladbach, the win must be seen as a success for Bayern's new coach Pep Guardiola.  He stuck to the normal line up for the Bavarians and permitted them to conduct an attack friendly game.  This allowed Arjen Robben and Frank Ribery to perform their magic.  Bayern, however showed some serious flaws in its defence during this match.  Dante's own goal revealed that there has to be better communication among them.

It is difficult to draw any real conclusions after one matchday.  Both Bayern and Dortmund had relatively easy opponents, Leverkusen played at home, while Schalke disappointed against Hamburg.  Berlin's trouncing of Frankfurt was a surprise and revealed that the Hessen have a lot of work to do in their defence.  Hoffenheim, despite its 9-0 DFB Cup success appears to continue its struggles.

Hoffenheim and Augsburg seem destined for another season battling relegation and Werder Bremen will be in the same boat.  Franfurt, after one match took a trouncing and may only have had a bad day.  Next weekend should provide a clearer picture.

Dortmund, Bayern and Leverkusen appear to be battling for the top spot, but the Knappen from Schalke will require a vast improvement.  While both Bayern and Dortmund have experienced the rigors of Champions League competition, it remains to be seen how Leverkusen will cope with the stress.  Schalke will have to improve vastly if the side is to compete at the top level.

Predictions

FC Bayern, Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen should finish in the top four.  Who will be on top in the end is not that easy to predict.  This season the battle should be among all three.  While Dortmund was well behind Bayern during the 2012/13 season and Leverkusen just one point behind Dortmund, it should be a lot closer this year.  Toss a coin.

Hoffenheim, Augsburg, Braunschweig and Bremen are predicted to fight off relegation.  Berlin will have a top ten finish.  Gladbach, Hannover, Hamburg, Freiburg and Mainz will compete for spots in the Euro League.   The remainder of the pack will finish in the middle.

Related:  Matchday 1 Roundup

Bayern wins season opener

Season Preview

Bayern hosts Hannover, Dortmund meets 1860 Munich in DFB Pokal second round

The DFB Pokal second round will take place on September 24th and two Bundesliga encounters will be one of highlights. FC Bayern Muenchen will host Hannover 96, while VFB Stuttgart travels to Freiburg.  Super Cup winners Borussia Dortmund will travel to Munich for an encounter with 1860 Muenchen.

Bayer Leverkusen travels to Bundesliga 1 fixture Arminia Bielefeld,  while Schalke 04 will be hosted by Darmstadt 98 of the third division.   The DFB Pokal has its own rules of survival, but one thing is clear that at least two more Bundesliga clubs will be eliminated.  Werder Bremen, Eintracht Braunschweig, Borussia Moenchengladbach and 1. FC Nuernberg were eliminated in the first round.

Here is the complete line up for the second round:

Bundesliga vs Bundesliga

FC Bayern München - Hannover 96
SC Freiburg - VfB Stuttgart

Bundesliga gegen 2. Bundesliga

TSV 1860 München - Borussia Dortmund
VfL Wolfsburg - VfR Aalen
Arminia Bielefeld - Bayer Leverkusen
Hamburger SV - SpVgg Greuther Fürth
Eintracht Frankfurt - VfL Bochum
1899 Hoffenheim - Energie Cottbus
FSV Mainz 05 - 1. FC Köln
1. FC Kaiserslautern - Hertha BSC Berlin

3. Liga gegen Bundesliga

Preußen Münster - FC Augsburg
Darmstadt 98 - FC Schalke 04

2. Bundesliga gegen 2. Bundesliga
FSV Frankfurt - FC Ingolstadt 04

3. Liga gegen 2. Bundesliga

VfL Osnabrück - 1. FC Union Berlin
1. FC Saarbrücken - SC Paderborn 07

Regionalliga - 2. Bundesliga

SC Wiedenbrück 2000 - SV Sandhausen

German Champion Borussia Dortmund defeat Legia Warsaw 1-0

Borussia Dortmund has completed another test in its preparation phase for the 2011/12 Bundesliga season. In a Sunday game at the Pepsi Arena in Warsaw, the champions defeated Legia Warsaw with a fourth minute goal by Lukas Lewandowski (a Polish national).
Although Matt Hummels was once again available, Mario Goetze missed the match due to an eye infection. The newly acquired Reus played the central control in midfield in the first half surrounded by Grosskreutz, Grundogan Kuba and Kehl. Lewandowski was the only striker. Full story @allvoices.com

DFB Pokal - Dortmund overruns Bayern with 5 - 2 Goals

After initial pressure by Bayern on Dortmunds target, the Borussen countered quickly and a mistake by the Bayern defence left the net wide open for Kagawa who put the ball into the net in the third minute for the 1-0 lead for Bayern.  

In the 25th minute a long pass intended for Mario Gomez hit its mark.  Weidenfeller left the net and without touching the ball brought Gomez to the ground.  The referee awarded a penalty kick, which Arjen Robben converted to the 1-1 draw. 

Roman Weidenfeller who was hurt in the 8th minute in a collision with Mario Gomez, finally bit the bullet in the 34th minute and had to be replaced by the Australian Mitch Langarak.  His first test came just a few minutes later when he took a courageous dive at Mario Gomez.  He certainly passed that test.

With end to end action throughout the match, Dortmund was attacking the Munich end.  Schmelzer shot was blocked and then Grosskreutz was taken down by Jerome Boateng in the penalty area.  Clear decision, penalty for Dortmunds which Matt Hummels converted for the 2-1 lead for Dortmund.,

While just seconds into injury time, Kagawa  makes a brilliant delivery to Robert Lewandowski who defeats the three Bayern defenders and put the ball into the net for a 3-1 lead for Borussia Dortmund.

Near the end of the first half Dortmund was very much in control.  The teams hit the cabin with a 3-1 lead for Dortmund.  Bayern had a big task ahead, if they were to safe the game.  While Bayern had more ball possession in the first half, Dortmund convinced in their ability to switch to offense quickly and for the most part were able to make something out of their chances.

In the second half Dortmund continued its tight defence with counters.  The tactic paid off in the 58th minute when Grosskerutz passed to  Kagawa, who saw Lewandowski on the right in the penalty box.  Lewandowski picked up the ball and fired it from 12 meters into the left corner of the net for a 4-1 Dortmund lead.

Bayern finally came back into match when Ribery go the ball through a tight defence, defeating Schmelzer in the process.  He let go with the left foot and sank the ball into the left side of the net.

The Bayern goal, which gave some hope, didn't last long when Gundogans passed to Pisczek and Manuel Neuer, who had the ball dropped it.  Piscek passed to Lewandowski who headed the ball into the net in the 81st minute, giving Dortmund a 5-2 lead.

That is how it ended on this night and Dortmund is the German Cup champion.  The victory is well deserved and for the second time this season Bayern goes empty handed  Borussia Dortmund is the undisputed best team in German football.  They should be a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League in the coming season. 

FC Bayern:  Manuel Neuer - Philipp Lahm,  Jerome Boateng, Holger Badstuber, David Alaba(Contendo (69th) , Luiz Gustavo Thomas Mueller 46th),   Bastian Schweinsteiger - Arjen Robben, Toni Kroos, Franck Ribery -Mario Gomez

Borussia Dortmund:   Roman Weidenfeller (Mitch Langarak 34th) - Lukas Piszczek, Neven Subotic, Mats Hummels, Marcel Schmelzer- Ilkay Gundogan, Kuba (Piresec 84th)  - Jakub Blaszczykowski, Shinji Kagawa (Bender), Kevin Großkreutz - Robert Lewandowski

Bundesliga Matchday 34 Fixtures and Preview

Bundesliga Matchday 34 marks the end of the 2011/12 Bundesliga season.  The top four spots have been decided.  Dortmund will be the champion, handily leading FC Bayern with eight points and Bayern is nine points ahead of Schalke 04, which in turn leads Borussia Moenchengladbach by seven points.  For VFB Stuttgart and Bayer Leverkusen it  will be a battle for fifth and sixth place, with Stuttgart currently holding a one point lead.

Hannover, Wolfsburg, Hoffenheim, Nuernberg and Bremen mathematically have a chance to move into the seventh and final Euro League spot.  Realistically speaking, only Wolfsburg has a real opportunity to remove Hannover from that spot.

Kaiserslautern is already relegated and the results of the Koln vs Bayern and Berlin vs Hoffenheim will decide the second relegation and relegation elimination match with the 2. Bundesliga third place club.

The soon to be crowned champion Borussia Dortmund will host a feisty Freiburg team.  With the trophy in place, Dortmund will want to leave a good impression in its final match for the season.  Munich plays in Koln, a team fighting for its very survival in the Bundesliga.  It's a must win for Koln.  Although Berlin is two points behind, the goal difference would move Koln into spot 17 in the even of a tie and a Berlin win.  Berlin hosts Hoffenheim, which is another difficult match for the Berliners.

05.05.2012     15:30     1. FC Nürnberg - Bayer 04 Leverkusen     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     1. FSV Mainz 05 -M'gladbach     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     1. FC Köln - FC Bayern München     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     SV Werder Bremen  - FC Schalke 04     -:- (-:-)   
05.05.2012     15:30     FC Augsburg - Hamburger SV     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     Borussia Dortmund  - Sport-Club Freiburg     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     Hannover 96 - 1. FC Kaiserslautern     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     Hertha BSC  - 1899 Hoffenheim     -:- (-:-)    
05.05.2012     15:30     VfB Stuttgart  - VfL Wolfsburg     -:- (-:-)

Bundesliga Table
                                                    GP       W    D    L        GF/A        Pts
1Borussia Dortmund                    33      24    6    3         76:25          78
2Bayern München                        33      22   4     7         73:21          70
3Schalke 04                                  33      19   4   10         71:42          61
4Borussia Mönchengladbach       33      16   9    8          46:24          57
5VfB Stuttgart                               33     14   8   11         57:44          50
6Bayer Leverkusen                       33      14   9     9         49:41          49
7Hannover 96                                33     11  12   10         39:44          45 8Wolfsburg                                    33     13    5   15         45:57          44
9Hoffenheim                                 33      10  11   12         40:44          42
101. FC Nürnberg                         33      12    6   15          37:45          42
11Werder Bremen                          33     11    9   13          46:55          42
12SC Freiburg                               33      10  10  13           44:57          40
13FSV Mainz 05                           33        9  12  12           47:48          39
14Hamburger SV                           33        8  12  13           35:56          36
15FC Augsburg                             33         7  14  12          35:49          35
161. FC Köln                                 33         8    6  19          38:69          30
17Hertha BSC Berlin                     33         6  10  17         38:63          28
181. FC Kaiserslautern                  33         4   11  18         23:52          23

Bundesliga Matchday 33 Round Up - Berlin Joins K'Lautern in Relegation

With matchday 33 in the books, the Bundesliga is all but decided.  Dortmund will play their final match at home next week and will be able to celebrate its championship before a home crowd.  87,500 fans should be in the Dortmund stadium.  Kaiserslautern, which was already heading for relegation next season, put in a stellar performance against Dortmund, scoring the first goal.  In the end it wasn't enough to derail Dortmund.  Barrios and Kagawa put in a superb performance to lead Dortmund to a 5-2 victory.

In the southern derby between Bayern Muenchen and VFB Stuttgart, Gomez came through with two goals and the Champions League finalist walked away with a 2-0 win.  Berlin has joined Kaiserslautern and is also returning to the 2. Bundesliga next year.  Schalke defeated Berlin easily with 4 goals to nothing.  Koeln lost to Freiburg 3-1 and is now in the relegation qualification spot.

Augsburg with a scoreless tie with Gladbach has prevailed in the second leg of the season and has saved its spot in the Bundesliga for the 2012/13 season, a superb effort by Augsburg.

Matchday 34 will see a battle for spot seven and the final Euroleague spot.  Wolfsburg, Hannover and Hoffenheim will be vying for that spot.

For Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern there is still the DFB Cup to decide and of course, Bayern is looking forward to hosting Chelsea in the Allianz Arena for the Champions League final. 

In the 2. Bundesliga, Eintracht Frankfurt and Greuther Fuerth will be promoted to the Bundesliga.  Duessledorf, St. Pauli, Paderborn and 1860 Muenchen are still in contention for the third spot.  2. Bundesliga plays all of its matches tomorrow.  

28.04.2012, 15.30    Bayer Leverkusen -    Hannover 96                      1-0   
28.04.2012, 15.30    Hamburger SV -    FSV Mainz 05                         0-0   
28.04.2012, 15.30    1899 Hoffenheim -    1. FC Nürnberg                   2-3   
28.04.2012, 15.30    Bayern München -    VfB Stuttgart                       2-0   
28.04.2012, 15.30    SC Freiburg -    1. FC Köln                                   3-1  
28.04.2012, 15.30    Bor. Mönchengladbach -    FC Augsburg              0-0   
28.04.2012, 15.30    1. FC Kaiserslautern -    Borussia Dortmund        2-5   
28.04.2012, 15.30    VfL Wolfsburg -    Werder Bremen                       3-1   
28.04.2012, 15.30    Schalke 04 -    Hertha BSC Berlin                         4-0

Bundesliga Table
                                                    GP       W    D    L        GF/A        Pts
1Borussia Dortmund                    33      24    6    3         76:25          78
2Bayern München                        33      22   4     7         73:21          70
3Schalke 04                                  33      19   4   10         71:42          61
4Borussia Mönchengladbach       33      16   9    8          46:24          57
5VfB Stuttgart                               33     14   8   11         57:44          50
6Bayer Leverkusen                       33      14   9     9         49:41          49
7Hannover 96                                33     11  12   10         39:44          45 8Wolfsburg                                    33      13   5   15         45:57          44
9Hoffenheim                                 33     10  11   12          40:44          42
101. FC Nürnberg                         33      12   6   15           37:45          42
11Werder Bremen                          33     11    9   13          46:55          42
12SC Freiburg                               33       10  10  13          44:57          40
13FSV Mainz 05                           33        9  12 12            47:48          39
14Hamburger SV                           33        8  12  13           35:56          36
15FC Augsburg                             33         7  14  12          35:49          35
161. FC Köln                                 33         8    6  19          38:69          30
17Hertha BSC Berlin                     33         6  10  17         38:63          28
181. FC Kaiserslautern                  33         4   11  18         23:52          23