The Daily Star Ireland
Hoffenheim is struggling in the Bundesliga, sitting at 14th place and dangerously close to the relegation zone. This Sunday, they hosted Freiburg after a midweek German Cup match against Wolfsburg. However, their Europa League performance has been better, currently in 25th place in the league phase ranking, just outside the top 24 which would grant them access to the play-offs. Recently, they managed a 2-2 draw against Lyon but suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Braga in November.
On the other hand, FCSB, known to many as Steaua Bucharest, has been performing better in the Europa League, ranking 10th and level on points with the 6th place team. They aim to finish in the top 8 to secure a direct qualification to the round of 16. Before the November international break, they secured a 2-0 victory over Midtjylland and recently drew 0-0 with Olympiakos. Domestically, they are 3rd in the league, just one point behind the leader after a 4-1 victory at Otelul and a home match against Botosani on Sunday.
Hoffenheim faces several absences for the Europa League. Turkish defender Kabak and forward Bebou have not played this season due to injuries and were not registered for the league phase. Midfielder Prömel, full-back Lenz, and striker Bülter (who has scored 4 Bundesliga goals) are also out. Midfielders Tohumcu and Grillitsch are doubtful. Hlozek, with 2 Europa League goals, is their top scorer in the competition, while star player Kramaric has yet to score.
FCSB is missing key midfielder Lixandru and forward Baluta, who has scored 5 goals in all competitions. Winger Luis Phelipe, defender Chiriches, and Popescu are also likely to miss the match. Forward Birligea, who has 10 goals this season including 3 in the Europa League, is suspended after a red card in the last game. Several players, including first-choice goalkeeper Tarnovanu, risk suspension if they receive another yellow card.
Prediction
Both teams have been prone to drawing recently, with FCSB drawing four of their last five second-tier fixtures and Hoffenheim sharing points in four of their last seven Europa League matches. However, given the circumstances and current form, a win for FCSB seems more likely.
Prediction: Hoffenheim 0 : 2 FCSB
