Stuttgart
- Stuttgart are unbeaten in the Bundesliga since early December, have not failed to score since then and continue to rotate players because of Europa League football.
- Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß has instilled a philosophy and identity that make them a high-tempo, pressing team that like to get the ball down and play.
Freiburg
Freiburg have been solid since the winter break, winning three, drawing one and losing one of their last five games , with their only loss coming away at Leipzig.
Head-to-Head
The Baden-Württemberg derby between Stuttgart and Freiburg has produced plenty of goals and drama over the past few years and this clash of high-tempo and pragmatic football should have plenty of intrigue for tactical analysts.
Stuttgart
The wing-backs, especially Maximilian Mittelstädt , who takes penalties and scores goals, provide width and the ability to push on in numbers, while Jamie Leweling offers pace, assists and a late run into the box.
Freiburg
- Vincenzo Grifo is Freiburg’s creative hub and has six Bundesliga goals, and is a set-piece specialist who can deliver dangerous crosses.
- Igor Matanović is another goal threat, having scored a brace in a recent derby, while Lucas Höler brings a physical presence and finishing prowess up front.
- Christian Günter leads Freiburg’s backline as captain and the recent emergence of Noah Atubolu between the posts has given them a solid goalkeeper.
- The absence of centre-back Philipp Lienhart is a notable weakness and could be crucial if Freiburg struggle to contain Stuttgart’s attack.
Betting Insights
- Stuttgart are 1.7 favourites, Freiburg are 4.4, and the draw is 3.9.
- Both teams to score is priced at 2.25 and looks appealing given both sides’ attacking profiles.
Prediction
- The hosts are favourites for a reason and we believe Stuttgart will edge out a close match thanks to their firepower and home-field advantage.
- Freiburg are solid and will likely score, making BTTS a strong play and a 2-1 home win a sensible exact-score prediction.
- Both managers will rotate and adapt after recent European fixtures, so the game and goal timing could depend on those tactical changes and the player matchups on the day.
