
- Date: Saturday, 26 April 2025
- Venue: PreZero Arena, Sinsheim
- Fixture: TSG Hoffenheim vs Borussia Dortmund
Match Preview
Hoffenheim welcome Borussia Dortmund to the PreZero Arena for a Bundesliga clash that could have significant implications at both ends of the table. Hoffenheim, currently sitting 15th, are desperate for points to steer clear of relegation worries, while Dortmund, 7th in the standings, are aiming to finish the season strongly and keep their European hopes alive. The match promises to be an open affair, with both teams showing attacking intent but also defensive vulnerabilities in recent weeks.
Hoffenheim come into this fixture on the back of a narrow 3-2 defeat away at Freiburg, a result that typifies their inconsistent form this season. They have just one win from their last five Bundesliga matches (1W, 2D, 2L), with their last home game ending in a 2-0 victory over Mainz. However, their defensive frailties remain a concern, having conceded 55 goals in 30 league matches, the second-worst record in the division. Injuries have also taken their toll, with the fitness of key striker Maximilian Beier still uncertain after recent tests, and defender Stanley Nsoki serving a suspension.
Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, are enjoying a better run of form, having won their last two games, including an impressive 3-2 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach. Their attacking prowess has been evident, scoring 15 goals in their last six matches, but defensive lapses persist, with just one clean sheet in that span. Dortmund will be without influential midfielder Pascal Gross, who suffered a knee ligament injury and will miss this match, while Emre Can and Serhou Guirassy are both doubtful due to groin issues. Jamie Bynoe-Gittens is also a doubt with a hand injury.
Historically, this fixture has produced goals and drama. In their last 16 meetings at the PreZero Arena, Hoffenheim have won five times, Dortmund six, with five draws. The most common result is a 1-1 draw, but with both teams’ current defensive issues and attacking strengths, a high-scoring contest looks likely. Dortmund’s strengths in wing play and quick transitions could be decisive, especially given Hoffenheim’s susceptibility to conceding from wide areas.
Key Players
- Hoffenheim:
- Andrej Kramaric – The Croatian forward remains Hoffenheim’s most creative and dangerous player, capable of unlocking defences and scoring crucial goals.
- Maximilian Beier – If fit, his pace and finishing will be vital for Hoffenheim’s counter-attacks.
- Florian Grillitsch – The midfield anchor, responsible for breaking up Dortmund’s play and launching attacks.
- Borussia Dortmund:
- Julian Brandt – With Gross out, Brandt’s creativity and vision in midfield will be essential.
- Donyell Malen – A constant threat with his direct running and ability to finish chances.
- Karim Adeyemi – Offers pace and unpredictability on the flanks, and could exploit Hoffenheim’s defensive weaknesses.
Prediction
Given the attacking talent on display and both teams’ recent defensive records, this match is likely to feature plenty of goalmouth action. Dortmund have the edge in quality and recent form, and even with injuries, their attacking depth should see them through. Hoffenheim’s home advantage and desperation for points mean they will not go down without a fight, but Dortmund are favourites to claim a narrow, high-scoring win.
Predicted score: Hoffenheim 1-2 Borussia Dortmund
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
---|---|---|
Borussia Dortmund Win | 4/5 | Bet Now |
Hoffenheim Win | 16/5 | Bet Now |
Draw | 16/5 | Bet Now |
Over 2.5 Goals | 8/15 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | 8/13 | Bet Now |
Donyell Malen to Score Anytime | 2/1 | Bet Now |
Julian Brandt to Assist | 3/1 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and may vary. Always check the latest odds before placing your bet.
Expect an entertaining clash with plenty of attacking football, as both sides look to end the season on a high note.