Eintracht Faces Entry Issues, Pitch Puzzles, and Striker Uncertainty in Baku
Eintracht Frankfurt has faced a series of challenges as they prepared for their match in Baku. The team encountered unexpected delays at passport control, as not all players passed through swiftly. Questions also loom regarding the playing surface and offensive strategies under the interim coaching duo.
Entry Troubles for Eintracht Frankfurt
On Tuesday evening, local time around 21:45, the team arrived in Baku aboard Condor flight DE 9350. While most players progressed through passport control without issues, two, Nathaniel Brown and Michael Zetterer, experienced delays due to mistakes in their visa applications. These errors, attributed to the team management, required new visas to be issued at the airport.
Delays were exacerbated by a national holiday and the late arrival time, leading to several hours spent at passport control. Fortunately, all team members were eventually allowed to enter the country.
Concerns Over Stadium Conditions
The condition of the Tofik Bakhramov Stadium’s pitch raises additional concerns. This venue, named after the infamous referee from the 1966 final, has undergone maintenance efforts, including the use of a leaf blower to clear away ice remnants. Despite the pitch maintenance, the temperatures in Baku remain just above freezing, with recent rainfall adding to the challenges.
Match Importance Against Qarabag
- Eintracht Frankfurt needs a win to keep their play-off hopes alive for the following week against Tottenham.
- Qarabag Agdam also seeks victory, having not optimally prepared for their upcoming away match against Liverpool.
Qarabag’s last competitive match occurred on December 21, resulting in a 2-1 victory. Their performance in the Champions League has been notable, including wins over Benfica and Copenhagen, although they suffered a recent home defeat to Ajax Amsterdam.
Striker Position Uncertainty
With critical injuries affecting the squad, questions arise about who will score for Eintracht. Winter signings cannot participate until after the league phase, leaving key players Jonathan Burkardt and Michy Batshuayi unavailable due to injuries.
Interim coaches Dennis Schmitt and Alex Meier might employ Ritsu Doan, Ansgar Knauff, and Can Uzun in a front three formation, potentially as a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3. Knauff could act as a traditional striker, while Uzun might operate as a ‘false nine.’
The coaching staff has also brought along 17-year-old Alexander Staff, known to Meier from the U19 squad, though his participation may be limited to substitute appearances. Additionally, Jean-Matteo Bahoya, struggling for form, is less likely to be a primary choice for the starting lineup.
As Eintracht Frankfurt navigates these various issues, all eyes will be on their performance against Qarabag in this crucial encounter.
