Bundesliga Matchday 8 Preview - Showdown in Leverkusen

Matchday 8 will test third place Bayer Leverkusen against reigning champion FC Bayern Muenchen.  Leverkusen only trails the front runners Dortmund and Bayern by one point and was the last team to defeat Bayern Munich in the domestic league.

Borussia Moenchengladbach, nine points behind Dortmund will try to defeat Dortmund, which along with Bayern Munich and Leverkusen has won six of their seven starts.  Friday's opener sees Hannover 86 host Hertha BSC Berlin, with the two clubs separated by one point, in  fifth and sixth spot respectively.  Schalke 04, with just one win out of seven starts host FC Augsburg, which currently holds eighth spot.

While the top trio has opened a six point gap over the rest of the field, Leverkusen can make a difference this matchday when they host Bayern Muenchen.  Having won six of their first seven, Leverkusen has the opportunity to become a permanent fixture of the top three.  Leverkusen has scored 17 goals, with Stefan Kiessling and Sidney Sam netting five times each.   FC Bayern has only been scored on twice and can boast the best defence in the league.  Both clubs won their Champions League matches during midweek.  The Bayern machine appeared well oiled, playing beautiful combination soccer. Bayern has won its last 33 league matches, but their last loss came against Leverkusen.   This is no doubt the match of this coming matchday.

VFB Stuttgart takes on Werder Bremen, both teams have won three, tied one and lost three.  It should be a good contest in the Daimler Benz Arena.  Mainz welcomes Hoffenheim, both teams have had their problems. For Mainz it was slide downwards after the first three matches and Hoffenheim has only won two of their matches.  Eintracht Braunschweig is still chasing its first win when they appear in Wolfsburg.   Wolfsburg has won three and lost four and needs a win if the side is to aspire European play next season.

On Sunday 1.FC Nuernberg hosts Hamburger SV.  The Franken are yet to win a game this season, but have had five draws.  Hamburg also sits at five points, with only one win.  This match should be a good fight for three points by either side.

The second Sunday match features Frankfurt at Freiburg.  Both sides are Euro League contenders and Frankfurt won its match 3-0 on Thursday, while Freiburg lost 2-0, with a loss and a draw on their tally sheet.   Freiburg had one of its worst start into the season.  Sitting in 17th spot, the side has yet to register a win, with three draws and four losses.  A good effort by Frankfurt should earn the side three points in the Breisgau.  For Freiburg it is crunch time, before the field gains some distance from the three relegation spots.

Matchday 8 has something for every fan and should define whether Dortmund and Munich can establish domination over the remainder of the league. 

Friday October 4

Hannover 96 vs Hertha BSC    1-1

Saturday October 5

Schalke 04 vs FC Augsburg    4-1
M'gladbach vs Borussia Dortmund    2-0
VfB Stuttgart vs Werder Bremen    1-1
VfL Wolfsburg vs E. Braunschweig 0-2   
FSV Mainz vs1899 Hoffenheim  2-2
Bayer Leverkusen vs FC Bayern     

Sunday October 6

Nürnberg vs Hamburger SV
SC Freiburg - Eintracht Frankfurt 






Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
1--------Borussia Dortmund-----------8----6----1-----1------21:7-------19
2--------FC Bayern Muenchen--------7----6----1-----0------14-2-------19
3--------Bayer Leverkusen-------------7----6----0-----1------17:7-------18
4--------Borussia M'gladbach----------8----4----1-----3-----19:13-------13
5--------Hannover 96--------------------8----4----1-----3-----11:11------13
6------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------8----3----3-----2-----14:9--------12
7-------VFB Stuttgart--------------------8----3----2-----3-----16:10-------11 
8-------Werder Bremen------------------8----3----2-----3------9:12-------11
9------FC Schalke 04-------------------8----2----2-----4------13:18--------11
10--------FCAugsburg--------------------8----3----1-----4------9:15------10
11------1899 Hoffenheim--------------- 8----2----4-----2-----20:20------10
 12-------Mainz 05-------------------------8----3----1-----4-----12:17-------10
13------VFL Wolfsburg-----------------8----3----0-----5-------9:11---------9
14-------Eintracht Frankfurt--------------7----2----2-----3-----10:12-------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--------8-----1----1-----6------5:19---------4

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 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 Roundup 17/18 August 2013

Matchday 2 is in the books and  Leading the pack is Borussia Dortmund, after their second win in the new season.  With a two goal lead in goal difference.  Four more clubs have won their second match, Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Muenchen tied for second place, trailing Dortmund by two goals.  One more goal behind with a goal difference of two are  Mainz 05 and Werder Bremen.  26 goals were scored on this matchday.

While Bayern Muenchen and Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund  won their matches by a single goal, Schalke 04 was defeated handily by Wolfsburg with four goals.  Mainz edged out a 2-1 victory over SC Freiburg and Werder Bremen  won 1-0 over Augsburg.  Hoffenheim ran over Hamburg 5-1.

In the evening match Gladbach scored three times to defeat Hannover 96 for their first win in the new season.

Hertha BSC Berlin was unable to repeat its starting performance of last weekend, but edged out a draw in an away game in Nuernberg.  Borussia Dortmund dominated newcomer Eintracht Braunschweig, but was tested by Braunschweig's compact defence.  In the end Dortmund scored two goals in the second half, one on a penalty kick, before Braunschweig answered with one near the end of the match.  The win was enough to send the Westfalen to the top spot.  

Hertha BSC Berlin and Borussia Dortmund don't play until Sunday and can also win their second match.  Berlin plays Nuernberg, while Dortmund takes on Eintracht Braunschweig.

VFB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen  0-1

A single own goal by Stuttgart's Schwaab secured the narrow win for Bayer Leverkusen.  While Stuttgart dominated throughout the match, the Schwaben were unable to capitalize.  The goal was enough to secure Leverkusen's spot on top of the league, equal to Munich, while Stuttgart occupies 15th.

VFL Wolfsburg vs FC Schalke 04  4-0

Goals by Knoch (55th), Vierinha (61st), Naldo (67) and Kutschke (90th) secured the win for Wolfsburg.  The first half remained scoreless, although Wolfsburg took control of the match from the start.  After Knoch's goals ten minutes into the second half the factory team could no longer be held back.  Schalke became totally ineffective and could have lost by even a higher score.   Wolfsburg moved into 8th spot while Schalke moved to the second half of the table in 13th spot.

SV Werder Bremen vs FC Augsburg 1-0

Depsite a superb performance by Augsburg, a 22nd minute goal by Ekici, deprived Augsburg of its points. While Augsburg played superb in the midfield, the quality in their offence was lacking.  On the other end, Bremen fought hard to maintain its lead and with Lady Luck on its side, the Hanseaten secured their second win and fourth place spot.  Augsburg bring up the rear of the league in 17th place.

SC Freiburg vs Mainz 05  1-2

After a  scoreless half, Mainz took the lead in the 64th minute on Kimling's goal.  Four minutes later, in the 68th minute, Mueller netted to double the lead.  Freiburg bounced back with Freis' goal in the 71st minute, but it wasn't enough.  Mainz held Freiburg back for the remainder of the match to ensure a 2-1 win.  Mainz is currently in third spot while Freiburg moved into 16th.

Hamburger SV vs 1899 Hoffenheim 1-5

Refreshing and entertaining offensive play gave Hoffenheim the clear advantage in this match. Firmino opened the scoring for Hoffenheim in the 5th minute, but Klaas Van der Vaart got the equalizer in the 44th minute  After Vollands got the go ahead goal in the 50th minute, Modeste netted twice in the 67th and 74th minute.   Firmino put the final nail in the coffin at the 77 minute mark.  Hoffenheim moves into 5th spot and Hamburg moves to 12th.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs FC Bayern Muenchen  0-1

Mandzukic's goal in the 12th minute was all that Bayern needed to take the three points.  Bayern was unable to capitalize on their overwhelming dominance and had the fans holding their breath a few times, especially when Frankfurt threatened, but there attempts were foiled by Manuel Neuer.  This match should have easily been a three goal win.  Regardless, Bayern established a club record with the 27th undefeated league game.  Despite Frankfurt's second loss, this was a much better performance than their first match in Berlin.  Frankfurt remains at the bottom of the league and Bayern is on top with Leverkusen.

Moenchengladbach vs Hannover 96  3-0

Kruse gave Gladbach a half time 1-0 lead in the 20th minute.  Kramer doubled the score in the 53rd, while Dames scored Gladbach's third in the  66th minute.  Gladbach played a disciplined tactical game in the defence while connecting with plenty of combinations offensively.  Hannover looked shaky in its defence and appeared without imagination or plan to succeed offensively.  Gladbach moves into 9th spot while Hannover occupies tenth.

1. FC Nuernberg vs Hertha BSC Berlin 2-2

Nuernberg's Drmic got the lead in the 40th minute and Berlin came back in the 61st minute with Allagui's goal and took the lead with a goal by Ronny in the 78th minute. In the final minutes of the match when it looked like another victory for Berlin, Kiotake scored from a direct free kick and saved one point for the Franken.  Despite the last minute goal, newcomer Berlin can take solace in the fact that they took a point in their first away match.  Berlin moved into sixth place, while Nuernberg occupies 11th.

Borussia Dortmund vs Eintracht Braunschweig  2-1

Braunschweig's compact defence made it difficult for Borussia Dortmund to find the net.  After 45 minutes the match was scoreless.  The second half saw Dortmund with the majority of the possession.  Braunschweig seldom ventured out of its own half.  Jonas Hofmann, who came in as a substitute in the 68th minute got the go ahead goal for Dortmund.  A penalty kick by Reus in the 86th gave Dortmund a two goal lead.  Braunschweig's Kratz narrowed the score to 2-1 in the 89th minute.  Braunschweig narrowly lost it first two debut matches and occupies 15th spot. Dortmund's win moved the Westfalen into top spot in the Bundesliga on goal difference.  Four more teams, Leverkusen, FC Bayern, Mainz 05 and Werder Bremen,  remain undefeated after two matchdays.

Saturday August 17, 2013

VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen     0-1
VfL Wolfsburg vs Schalke 04              4-0
Werder Bremen vs FC Augsburg         1-0
SC Freiburg vs FSV Mainz 05             1-2
Hamburger SV vs 1899 Hoffenheim    1-5   
Eintracht Frankfurt vs FC Bayern        0-1
M'gladbach vs Hannover 96                 3-0

Sunday 18 August
  
Nürnberg vs Hertha BSC       2-2
Borussia Dortmund vs E. Braunschweig 2-1


Place-----Team-----------------------GP---W---D----L---GF/GA ---Pts
7--------Borussia Dortmund-----------2----2----0-----0-------6:1--------6
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----------------2----2----0-----0------2:0---------6
6------- Hertha BSC Berlin-------------1----1----1-----0------6:2---------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--------------------1----1----0-----0-------2:0--------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

Champions League Group of 16 Draw

The stage is set for the Champions League Group of 16 competition, which will be played as a knock out.  Teams will play an away and home match during the periods 14-22 February 2012 and 6-14 March 2012. 

Bayern Muenchen should be able to get beyond the Group of 16 with its fortunate draw of FC Basel.  The operative word is "if" though.  After all FC Basel knocked Manchester United out of the competition.  Bayern will have to remain focused, even though they emerged the winner against Basel in the qualification round 3-0 and 2-1. 

Bayer Leverkusen drew FC Barcelona and Leverkusen's fans will see stars like Messi and Xavi and Iniesta.  David Villa will be out with an injury.   Barca is the clear overwhelming favourite.  Regardless, the games need to be played and surprises are always possible. 

Chelsea drew Napoli and all bets are off in that competition, while Arsenal meets AC Milan.   CKSA Moscow drew the other power house Real Madrid and Marseilles is matched with Inter Milan.

The Matches for the Group of 16:

FC Basel vs Bayern Muenchen

Bayer Leverkusen vs FC Barcelona

Olympic Lyon vs APOEL Nicosia

SSC Napoli vs Chelsea

AC Milan vs Arsenal

CSKA Moscow vs Real Madrid

Zenit St. Petersburg vs Benefica Lisbon

Olympique Marseilles vs Inter Milan

Bundesliga - Leverkusen Continues March to Top with 2-0 Win Over Hoffenheim

Hoffenheim started this match in ninth place with 18 points, while Leverkusen was sixth with 22 points on the table.  A win for Leverkusen would permit continued contact with the league leaders.  Hoffenheim has been scoreless for four matchdays with two losses and two draws.  

Leverkusen dominated easily in the first half, although it slowed near the end.   Hoffenheim definitely needed to do more during the first phase of this game.   Leverkusen scored early on.  With just 11 minutes into the match, when Andre Schuerrle took a freekick from approximately 35 meters aiming directly at the goal of Hoffenheim.  Tom Starke reflected the shot where Eren Derdiyok was in place and put the ball in the net with a header.  1:0 Leverkusen.

 Leverkusen kept up the pressure in the second half and Hoffenheim showed little creativity.  Leverkusen was rewarded in the 79th minute, when Bernd Leno passed the ball in the penalty area of Hoffenheim.  Kiessling redirected the ball to Sidney Sam, who slipped the ball above Tom Starke, into the net.  

The Leverkusen win was deserved overall.  Leverkusen had 11-6 shots on goal and was the better team.   The win keeps Leverkusen in contact with the top, trailing with only four points.  Hoffenheim, with 18 points is seven points off sixth place.

Tomorrow No. 1 and 2 clash when Gladbach hosts Dortmund and third place Bayern hosts fourth place Bremen.   Augsburg travels to Gelsenkirchen to meet fifth place Schalke 04.  No doubt there will be lots of excitement in the Bundesliga, where nothing is decided yet.  

Below are this weekends matches and updated table:

  

Matchday 15

02.12.2011, 20.30  Bayer Leverkusen -1899 Hoffenheim 2-0
03.12.2011, 15.30  Bayern München -Werder Bremen 4-1
03.12.2011, 15.30  SC Freiburg -Hannover 96 1-1
03.12.2011, 15.30  1. FC Kaiserslautern -Hertha BSC Berlin 1-1
03.12.2011, 15.30  VfL Wolfsburg -FSV Mainz 05 2-2
03.12.2011, 15.30  Bor. Mönchengladbach -Borussia Dortmund 1-1
03.12.2011, 18.30  VfB Stuttgart -1. FC Köln (-:-) 
04.12.2011, 15.30  Hamburger SV -1. FC Nürnberg (-:-) 
04.12.2011, 17.30  Schalke 04 -FC Augsburg (-:-)

Bundelsiga Table Updated 02 December  2011 

                                                         GP    W   D   L   GF/GA    Pts
1    Bayern München                        15      10    1    4      38:9     31
2    Borussia Dortmund                    15      9    3    3      30:10     30
3    Borussia Mönchengladbach       15      9    3    3      24:10     30
4    Werder Bremen                          15       8    2    5      26:25    26
5    Schalke 04                                  14       8    1    5      28:20    25
6    Bayer Leverkusen                      15       7    4    4      22:19    25
7    VfB Stuttgart                              14       6    3    5      20:15    21
8    Hannover 96                               15       5    6    4      19:23    21
9    Hertha BSC Berlin                     15        4    7    4      22:23   19
10    1899 Hoffenheim                      15       5    3    7      16:18   18
11    VfL Wolfsburg                           15       5    2    8     21:30   17
12    FSV Mainz 05                            14       4    4    6     21:28   16
13    1. FC Köln                                 13       5    1    7      20:29  16
14    1. FC Nürnberg                          14       4    3    7      14:24  15
15    Hamburger SV                           14       3    5    6      18:26  14
16    1. FC Kaiserslautern                  15       3    5    7      11:19  14
17    SC Freiburg                                15       3    4    8      20:31  13
18    FC Augsburg                              14       2    5    7      12:24  11

Bundesliga Clubs - Champions League Matchday 5

On Champions League Matchday 5 Group Stage three Bundesliga Clubs were in action.  FC Bayern continues to dominate Group A, after defeating Napoli 3-1 and has qualified for the top 16 knock out round.   Leverkusen's last minute goal over Chelsea  gave the Bayer factory team an important win ndin the final group game they will meet Genk, which lost to Valencia 7-0.  Chelsea will host Valencia. 

Leverkusen's fate is in its own hands, a draw between Chelsea and Valencia would move both teams ahead of Leverkusen by goal for goal against difference.  While Leverkusen can move on with a tie, a win against Genk is the best scenario. 

Dortmund, although doing extremely well in the Bundesliga, has found out that the Champions League is not the Bundesliga.  Besides putting extra pressure on the club, the win over Bayern Munich on the weekend seems to have taken its toll on the young team.  Early in the match against Arsenal both Goetze and Bender had to be substituted due to injuries.  Taking two key players out of the team also took its toll.  This is not to take anything away from the Gunners, who put on a superb performance in the Emirates.  Arsenal were able to do what Munich couldn't last Saturday, they penetrated Dortmund's defence.  My hat is off to the Gunners. 

With Dortmund's Champions League Adventure over, the team can now concentrate all their efforts on the Bundesliga.  Several of Dortmund's players play with the national side.  Goetze, Bender, Hummels will continue to see international play.  If there present performance in the Bundesliga continues, they will have another go at the Champions League next year, with a little more experience.

Bayern Muenchen and hopefully Leverkusen will continue to represent the Bundesliga in the Champoions League.  The rubber will hit the road with the knock out round.