Hoffenheim Aim to Extend Top-Four Run Against Union Berlin

Hoffenheim is looking to extend its impressive run in the Bundesliga against Union Berlin this weekend. The team has demonstrated a remarkable turnaround, winning all four of their latest league matches since the winter break. A victory on Saturday is critical as they prepare for a challenging match against Bayern Munich next week, strengthening their position in the top-four race.

Current Form and Key Players

Hoffenheim’s resurgence this season marks a significant contrast to last year, when the team struggled at the bottom of the table. Key players for Hoffenheim include:

• Ilhas Bebou – Doubtful due to illness
• Wouter Burger – Suspended after a recent red card
• Adam Hlozek – Expected to return from injury
• Cole Campbell – Looking to debut after joining on loan
• Koki Machida – Out for the season with a ligament injury

The predicted lineup for Hoffenheim is a 4-1-2-1-2 formation:

Challenges for Union Berlin

Union Berlin is heading into this match in ninth place in the Bundesliga. The team has struggled to find form since the winter break, remaining winless in their last four matches. Their recent performances include:

• Draws against Mainz, Augsburg, and Stuttgart
• A 3-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund

Union’s ability to score has improved compared to last season, with the team now needing just 11 goals in their next 14 matches to equal a previous total of 35. Notable players to watch include:

• Marin Ljubicic – Expected to return soon
• Robert Skov – Set to return in mid-February
• Tom Rothe – Also slated for a mid-February return

The predicted lineup for Union Berlin is a 3-5-2 formation:

As Hoffenheim aims to sustain their top-four run against Union Berlin, both teams will seek crucial points in their Bundesliga campaigns. The match promises to be a competitive clash with significant implications for both sides.