Augsburg vs Borussia Dortmund: Match preview, team news and predictions

Augsburg host Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga this weekend || Imago

Augsburg vs Borussia Dortmund: Match preview, team news and predictions

Ayoola Kelechi 09:30 - 16.12.2023

The most exciting match in the Bundesliga this weekend will be the encounter between Augsburg and Borussia Dortmund. Here is everything you need to know about the match

Augsburg and Borussia Dortmund renew hostilities in the Bundesliga this weekend in what promises to be an enthralling match-up between two volatile sides.

The promising fixture is set to take place on December 16, 2023, with kickoff billed for 2:30 PM at the WWK Arena, Augsburg's home ground and it promises to be an intriguing encounter.

Augsburg's Recent Form and Tactics

Augsburg have shown a mixed bag of performances this season. Under the guidance of coach Jess Thorup, they went on a six-game unbeaten streak before being stopped by Werder Bremen. Despite this setback, they have shown resilience, especially at home, collecting 12 of their 17 points at the WWK Arena. T

Augsburg players remonstrate during the 2-0 Bundesliga loss to Werder Bremen | Imago
Augsburg players remonstrate during the 2-0 Bundesliga loss to Werder Bremen | Imago

heir approach has typically revolved around a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ermedin Demirovic playing a crucial role in linking the midfield and attack. However, they have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last 17 Bundesliga games.

Dortmund's Recent Form and Tactics

Borussia Dortmund, managed by Edin Terzic, have had a challenging run in the Bundesliga, with only one win in their last six league matches. This form contrasts starkly with their Champions League success, where they topped their group. 

Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi celebrates his goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League|  Imago
Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi celebrates his goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League| Imago

Dortmund's concerns are compounded by the suspension of Mats Hummels and injuries to key players like Youssoufa Moukoko and Julian Ryerson. They are expected to deploy a 4-1-3-2 formation, with a focus on an attacking approach, possibly featuring Donyell Malen and Niclas Füllkrug upfront.

Key Players

Augsburg: Ermedin Demirovic is a key player for Augsburg, having been directly involved in over half of their goals this campaign.

Augsburg's top scorer in the Bundesliga Ermedin Demirovic | Imago
Augsburg's top scorer in the Bundesliga Ermedin Demirovic | Imago

Dortmund: Marco Reus's experience and consistency make him a player to watch. Niclas Füllkrug, with five goals and four assists, is another crucial figure for Dortmund.

Historical Head-to-Head and Rivalry

Dortmund has historically had the upper hand in this fixture, with Augsburg conceding more goals against them than any other Bundesliga opponent. However, Augsburg's home form and Dortmund's recent struggles make this match less predictable.

Injuries and Suspensions

Augsburg will miss Raphael Framberger and Reece Oxford, while Iago remains doubtful. 

Dortmund's list includes Moukoko, Duranville, Nmecha, Ryerson, and the suspended Hummels.

Playing Styles and Predictions

Both teams have shown vulnerabilities in defence, with Dortmund conceding in five of their last six Bundesliga games and Augsburg's long streak without a clean sheet. 

Borussia Dotmund star Marco Reus | Imago
Borussia Dotmund star Marco Reus | Imago

This might lead to a game with several scoring opportunities. Betting tips often suggest over 2.5 goals in such a match. Dortmund, despite their inconsistent form, might have a slight edge due to their superior firepower.

Prediction

A prediction for this match is challenging due to both teams' fluctuating forms. 

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However, a closely fought contest is expected, with Dortmund slightly favoured to win. Some predictions suggest a 1-2 victory for Dortmund.

Time and Where to watch Augsburg vs Borussia Dortmund 

The match time is 3:30pm WAT and for Nigerian viewers, it's best to check local sports channels and Cable TV channels for live coverage of the match.

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