Goal.mu

Stuttgart will aim to bounce back from their frustrating defeat before the international break when they host a struggling VfL Bochum side at the MHPArena on Saturday. The Swabians are searching for consistency to climb back into the Bundesliga’s top half, while their opponents are still chasing their first league win of the season under recently appointed manager Dieter Hecking.

Stuttgart’s Current Form

Sebastian Hoeness’s Stuttgart side have failed to replicate last season’s brilliance, where they finished as Bundesliga runners-up. Sitting 11th with 13 points from 10 matches, their campaign so far has been disappointing, highlighted by a recent 3-2 home loss to Eintracht Frankfurt.

That defeat snapped Stuttgart’s impressive 16-game unbeaten home streak in the Bundesliga, which had stood since last year. Despite the setback, the Swabians remain just four points off the Champions League spots, offering hope for a revival if they can rediscover their momentum.

Stuttgart have dominated this fixture historically, winning 18 and drawing seven of their 25 home encounters against Bochum. With a 37-year unbeaten home streak in this fixture, Hoeness will expect nothing less than a return to winning ways this weekend.

Bochum’s Current Form

For VfL Bochum, the 2024-25 season has been nothing short of disastrous. Without a single victory in their opening 10 matches, the Blues sit rock bottom, having amassed only four points. The arrival of seasoned coach Dieter Hecking has provided a glimmer of hope, with Bochum holding Bayer Leverkusen to a 1-1 draw in his first game in charge.

Hecking boasts an impressive managerial record against Stuttgart, with 12 career wins against them—more than against any other opponent. His experience could be key as Bochum seek their first victory in Baden-Württemberg since 1987. However, the club’s alarming six-point gap from the relegation playoff position underlines the magnitude of the task at hand.

Team News

Stuttgart

• Denis Undav, Stuttgart’s top scorer this season, is sidelined with a thigh injury until 2025, leaving Ermedin Demirovic to lead the attack.
• Further absentees include Jamie Leweling (hamstring), Luca Raimund (thigh), El Bilal Toure (foot), and Dan-Axel Zagadou (ligament).
• Midfielder Angelo Stiller is expected to control proceedings in the middle of the park, while Chris Fuhrich offers a creative spark upfront.

Bochum

• Bochum’s injury list includes Myron Boadu (hip), while Bernardo remains a doubt due to a knee issue.
• Japanese midfielder Koji Miyoshi scored in the recent draw with Leverkusen and will likely start.
• Captain Anthony Losilla will anchor the midfield as Bochum search for their elusive first win.

Predicted Lineups

Stuttgart Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Nübel; Vagnoman, Rouault, Chabot, Mittelstädt; Karazor, Stiller; Rieder, Millot, Fuhrich; Demirovic

VfL Bochum Starting XI (4-3-3):
Drewes; Passlack, Oermann, Medić, Wittek; Bero, Losilla, Sissoko; Broschinski, Hofmann, Holtmann

Prediction

While Bochum’s spirited draw against Leverkusen hints at improvement under Hecking, Stuttgart’s historical dominance at the MHPArena and their superior squad quality should see them over the line.

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Stuttgart 2-1 VfL Bochum

Other betting tips:

• Both teams to score: Yes
• Over/Under 2.5 goals: Over
• Hot Stat: Stuttgart have scored in each of their last 17 Bundesliga home games.

The content provided in this article is intended solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Betting and gambling involve significant risks, including the potential loss of the principal amount wagered. Readers should be aware of their local regulations and laws concerning online betting and gambling. Always gamble responsibly, knowing that the outcomes are unpredictable and can lead to financial losses.If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please seek help. Many organizations provide resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Remember, the best bet is always a well-informed decision.Never gamble with funds that are essential for your daily life, and always set limits to ensure you’re not gambling more than you can afford to lose. The thrill of the bet should never overshadow the potential consequences of loss. Stay safe, informed, and gamble responsibly.