Stuttgart eye Bundesliga victory against Hoffenheim without top scorer

By SABC Sport
27th October 2023

VfB Stuttgart prepare to face off against TSG Hoffenheim on match-day 9, with both teams aiming to assert their dominance on the Bundesliga table.

Stuttgart, currently sitting in second place, are on a solid run of form, but they will be missing their top scorer, Serhou Guirassy, due to a muscle injury.

Coach Sebastian Hoeness is determined to find alternative solutions, stating to media, "I have to think about how we plan without Serhou Guirassy. That's our task now, to find other solutions - and we'll do that as a team."

The fitness of defender Dan-Axel Zagadou remains uncertain, despite his partial involvement in team training. Hoeness expressed hope for his inclusion, saying, "With Dan, it's still uncertain, but I'm hopeful that he'll make it." Unfortunately, Stuttgart will have to make do without Josha Vagnoman, Fabian Bredlow, Dennis Seimen, and Nikolas Nartey, who are sidelined.

On the other side of the pitch, Hoffenheim are currently in sixth place, trailing Stuttgart by six points. Hoeness had high praise for Pellegrino Matarazzo's squad, acknowledging their strong start and impressive away record: "They've started well. There's also the fact they've won all four of their away matches.

"Hoffenheim has a top squad and strengthened well in the summer. I'm expecting a top-quality match. We'll need a really good performance if we're to come away with a win or a point."

The clash between TSG's away success and VfB's home form sets the stage for an enticing showdown. Stuttgart have been a force to be reckoned with at the MHPArena, winning every game on their turf this season.

Hoeness acknowledged the importance of maintaining perspective and discipline, stating, "It's natural that positive results give you more confidence. It's important to me that we continue to keep things in perspective, train well and show discipline, precision, and team spirit on the day. That was required for us to go on this run we've been on, and I don't see us letting up."

As both teams gear up for this high-stakes encounter, Bundesliga fans can expect an intense battle on the field. With Stuttgart missing their top scorer and Hoffenheim's impressive away form, the match promises to be a test of skill, strategy, and determination for both sides.