On Saturday, January 20, 2025, Bundesliga action heats up as VfL Bochum take on RB Leipzig at Vonovia Ruhrstadion. With Bochum struggling at the bottom of the league table and Leipzig battling for a top-four spot, this match is crucial for both sides.
Bochum's Fight for Survival
VfL Bochum have been on a slight resurgence since Dieter Hecking took charge in November 2024. Despite sitting in 18th place with just nine points from 17 games, their recent form has shown improvement. In their last match, Bochum won 1-0 against St. Pauli, keeping a clean sheet for the second time in three games. The Blues have proven tough to break down at home, winning three of their last four matches at Vonovia Ruhrstadion. Their recent resilience has given them hope of escaping relegation, with just five points separating them from safety.
Leipzig's Struggles Continue
On the other hand, RB Leipzig, led by under-pressure coach Marco Rose, have faced a string of disappointing results. After losing 2-1 to Stuttgart, Leipzig sits in fourth place, but their form has been inconsistent. They have conceded 13 goals in their last five matches, and their offensive struggles are reflected in their position as only the ninth-best attacking team in the Bundesliga with 29 goals. Additionally, Leipzig’s form away from home has been concerning, having lost six of their last seven away matches. With key players Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda suspended, Leipzig's attacking options will be limited.
Team News and Key Players
For Bochum, the main concerns are the absences of Mats Pannewig (injury) and Anthony Losilla (illness). Tim Oermann is also a doubt due to a concussion. The team will rely on the likes of Matus Bero, Ibrahima Sissoko, and striker Philipp Hofmann to continue their strong recent form. In defense, Erhan Masovic, Ivan Ordets, and Bernardo will likely feature at the back.
RB Leipzig, meanwhile, will be missing the suspended Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda, as well as injured striker Andre Silva. Yussuf Poulsen could lead the attack, supported by Xavi Simons and Antonio Nusa in the attacking midfield. Kevin Kampl and Amadou Haidara will be tasked with stabilizing the midfield in the absence of Xaver Schlager and Forzan Assan Ouedraogo. Leipzig’s defense will also be disrupted, with Benjamin Henrichs and Castello Lukeba unavailable, potentially leading to a back three of Lukas Klostermann, Willi Orban, and Nicolas Seiwald.
Match Prediction: Bochum 1-0 Leipzig
Bochum will enter this match with confidence following their recent victories, especially at home. Leipzig’s defensive frailties and struggles in attack could play into Bochum’s hands. Despite Leipzig’s attacking threats, their recent form suggests they might find it difficult to break down the resilient Bochum defense. Bochum could pull off a shock 1-0 victory, further complicating Leipzig’s top-four ambitions.
