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Augsburg welcomes SV Darmstadt 98 in a high-stakes Bundesliga clash that holds the potential to shape the early relegation narrative this season. Set to lock horns on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at 2.30 pm UK time, both teams are hungry for points as they seek to create a buffer from the dreaded drop zone. Darmstadt 98 will carry the momentum from their first win of the season, whereas Augsburg hopes to bounce back after a recent loss.

Analysis:
Augsburg’s precarious position near the relegation spots brings a sense of déjà vu. They had just barely avoided the drop the previous season, surviving by the slimmest of margins. Manager Enrico Maassen, now in his second season, has tried to inject flair and style into Augsburg’s play. However, the results remain inconsistent, particularly on the road. A string of away defeats, including a 2-0 loss to Freiburg, paints a concerning picture. Their home form, consequently, has grown increasingly vital. Against Darmstadt, a direct relegation rival, they would be hoping for nothing less than three points.

Darmstadt, under the leadership of Torsten Lieberknecht, comes into this game riding high on confidence after an impressive 4-2 victory against Werder Bremen. It was a significant morale boost, especially after an earlier, disheartening DFB-Pokal exit at the hands of FC 08 Homburg. But there are issues to be ironed out, primarily in their backline. The team has yet to keep a clean sheet this season, a fact they’d be eager to change against Augsburg.

Team News:
Augsburg’s squad has been hit by suspensions and injuries. Arne Engels remains sidelined due to a red card, while a host of players, including Japhet Tanganga and Reece Oxford, are nursing injuries. Despite these setbacks, Maassen is expected to stick to his core group, with possible starts for Mads Pedersen, Dion Drena Beljo, and Niklas Dorsch.

AD:

Darmstadt, too, has its injury woes. Key players like Emir Karic and Braydan Manu are ruled out. Oscar Vilhelmsson’s participation is also doubtful. Yet, given the morale-boosting win in their previous outing, Lieberknecht is expected to persist with the same lineup.

Prediction:
While Augsburg possesses the home advantage and the experience of playing in the Bundesliga for over a decade, Darmstadt’s recent win might give them the psychological edge. Given the attacking vulnerabilities of both sides, goals could be on the cards.

Goal.mu predicts: Augsburg 2-2 SV Darmstadt 98. Both teams are expected to share the spoils in a match that could feature its fair share of goals.

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