Hoffeinheim have had their worst start to a league season in years. Personnel decisions have been a failure, and there is a depressing atmosphere in and around the club. A positive moment was the victory in the Europa League over Dynamo Kyiv and an unexpected draw with Stuttgart. Moreover, the team was very close to success, conceded a goal in the 99th minute.
Bochum with one point is at the bottom of the table. The team is desperately trying to play in attack, but the resources are lacking. It seems that Peter Seidler’s coaching style does not suit the team right now. The roster has not strengthened this summer, but only weakened. While the club is a clear candidate for relegation.
The hosts, unlike their rival, have started to gain points. The coach is using a more cautious strategy, changing his own principles. Bochum is falling lower and lower, and now they have lost two important players. Both teams now need points, but Hoffenheim have more resources for this.