As we approach another exciting Bundesliga encounter, all eyes turn to the Merck-Stadion am Böllenfalltor where SV Darmstadt 98 will host Borussia Dortmund on January 13, 2024. The clash will see 18th-placed Darmstadt aiming to upset their higher-ranked visitors, Dortmund, currently 5th in the league table. Let's delve into the details of what we might expect from this match-up.
Match analysis
Darmstadt’s recent performances hint at a team struggling to find form. In their last ten competitive fixtures, they've secured only one victory, facing losses in six, while the remaining three ended in draws. Their goal-scoring has been a concern, netting twice or more in just two fixtures within this run and suffering a heavy 8-0 defeat to Bayern Munich, illustrating defensive vulnerabilities.
On the contrary, Dortmund is exhibiting a more resilient character, with their last ten matches resulting in a balance of wins, draws, and only a single loss. The team's ability to find the back of the net has been demonstrated in both domestic league and European competition. However, consistency in securing wins seems to be the challenging part, as they have drawn 50% of their recent games.
Recent form
- Darmstadt 98's form in the Bundesliga: DLLLD (Win - 10%, Draw - 30%, Loss - 60%)
- Their last five matches resulted in scoring 5 goals and conceding 15.
- Borussia Dortmund's form in the Bundesliga: DDLDW (Win - 20%, Draw - 60%, Loss - 20%)
- Dortmund has scored 12 goals and conceded 9 in their last five matches.
Darmstadt seems to be struggling more significantly, both offensively and defensively, suggesting an upward battle against Dortmund.
Head to head
- Last meeting saw Darmstadt snag a surprising 2-1 victory over Dortmund in 2017.
- Prior to that, Dortmund had dominated with a 6-0 thrashing in 2016.
- In total, from the last four recorded fixtures:
- Dortmund victories: 2 (50%)
- Draws: 1 (25%)
- Darmstadt victories: 1 (25%)
The historical head to head tilts towards Dortmund, although Darmstadt has shown they can produce an upset.
Prediction
Considering recent form, historical meetings, and current standings, the prediction leans towards Borussia Dortmund taking advantage. Darmstadt will enter as underdogs and will likely focus on defensive solidity to try and snatch a point. However, Dortmund's attacking prowess should eventually break through.
- **Full Time Score**: SV Darmstadt 98 1-3 Borussia Dortmund
- **Betting Tip**: Considering the patterns, over 2.5 goals might be a sensible bet, coupled with Borussia Dortmund to win. Both teams to score could be another option given Darmstadt's capacity to find the occasional goal, despite their poor form.
Always remember to gamble responsibly as the match could sway against statistical expectations. All information is provided on a best-effort basis to assist in making an informed bet.
