The race for Champions League qualification is heating up, and RB Leipzig will be looking to secure valuable points as they visit Union Berlin in an exciting Bundesliga encounter this Saturday. The hosts, Union Berlin, have had a tough season so far, currently sitting in 14th place with just 20 points. Their form has been inconsistent, with a 3-0 defeat to St. Pauli on January 26 highlighting their ongoing struggles.
In contrast, Leipzig has been more resilient, although their recent results have been far from flawless. A 2-2 draw with Bayer Leverkusen on January 25, marked by a fortunate 85th-minute own goal, underscored their defensive frailties, yet their fifth-place standing with 32 points keeps them in the mix for top-tier European competition.
Union Berlin's Struggles
Union Berlin's biggest challenge this season has been their lack of goals. Scoring just 16 times so far, they have the worst attacking record in the Bundesliga. Their most recent clash with Leipzig ended in a 0-0 draw, which perfectly illustrated their struggles in front of goal. Steffen Baumgart, the Union coach, will be hoping his team can improve their defensive stability, having conceded 12 goals in their last four matches, losing three of them.
Despite the recent loss to St. Pauli, Union remains six points clear of the relegation zone. However, upcoming fixtures against relegation-threatened teams like Hoffenheim and Holstein Kiel are crucial for their survival.
RB Leipzig’s Defensive Woes
Leipzig, under manager Marco Rose, have faced difficulties of their own, particularly in defense. They've conceded 20 goals in their last nine outings and will need to tighten up if they are to keep Union at bay. With injuries to key players like Forzan Assan Ouedraogo, Kevin Kampl, and Xaver Schlager, Leipzig's midfield will be reshuffled, and their defense, especially with Benjamin Henrichs ruled out for the season, will be under pressure.
Despite their struggles, Leipzig has managed to claim important points, and they will be looking to improve their record on the road, which has seen them win just once in their last nine away matches. Their attack, featuring the in-form duo of Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda, could be the difference-maker in this fixture.
Union Berlin vs. RB Leipzig - Predicted Lineups
Union Berlin will be without suspended centre-back Leopold Querfeld and injured striker Andrej Ilic. The probable lineup could see Frederik Ronnow in goal, with a back three of Danilho Doekhi, Kevin Vogt, and Diogo Leite. Wing-backs Josip Juranovic and Robert Skov will look to support the attack, while Jordan Siebatcheu and Benedict Hollerbach are expected to lead the forward line.
Leipzig’s possible lineup includes Peter Gulacsi in goal, with a defensive line of Lukas Klostermann, Willi Orban, El Chadaille Bitshiabu, and David Raum. In midfield, Amadou Haidara and Arthur Vermeeren should partner up, while in attack, Sesko and Openda will look to exploit Union's defensive weaknesses.
Prediction: Union Berlin 1-3 RB Leipzig
Given the form of both teams, an entertaining clash is expected. While Union Berlin will look to capitalize on Leipzig’s recent defensive struggles, their own issues in front of goal are likely to let them down. Leipzig's more potent attack should prove decisive, and despite their recent away struggles, they are expected to claim all three points.
Why Follow Big Boys Soccer Talks?
For fans who want to stay updated on all things football, from the latest transfers to in-depth match previews, join the Big Boys Soccer Talks community. Stay informed with top-notch content, including player profiles, squad analysis, and exclusive club updates. Whether you’re a supporter of Union Berlin, RB Leipzig, or any other team, we provide all the essential information to keep you ahead of the game!
Join the Big Boys Soccer Talks Community
Don't miss out on crucial match previews and insider content about your favorite clubs! Click here to join the Big Boys Soccer Talks Community and follow us for all the latest football news, exclusive deals, and insights into the world of football.
