Not much noise was made by Hertha BSC during the transfer window.
Kaka was sent to Champions League participant APOEL in one move.
Former Hamburg man Aenis Ben-Hatira has now joined his hometown team, and the 23-year-old midfielder said "I hope I can take it to the next level."
Midfielder Daniel Beichler has gone out on loan to SV Ried after being at MSV Duisburg.
In addition, new father Rob Friend has been loaned to second-division Eintracht Frankfurt. Friend wasn't seeing much playing time anyway.
What these moves mean is that Hertha's squad is set as the club tries to cement a mid-table position. With five points from four matches, Hertha are on course for a creditable campaign. Right now midfield and central defense are the major problem areas while the strikers and goalkeeper look strong.
The next challenge is at league champion Dortmund, which will be without wunderkind Mario Gotze at the Signal Iduna Park. It's an ideal opportunity for Hertha to maintain their unbeaten away mark in front of the tremendous traveling support.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 4 review
Friday night
Hertha BSC v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-0
Actual result: 1-0
Hertha have five points through four matches and probably deserve two, and neither side deserved much from this drab affair.
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 3-0
Looks like the Wolves may face a season-long relegation battle along with Freiburg.
Hamburger SV v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 3-4
The pressure increases on Oenning and now Elia could be on his way to Italy. The northern German side is an abject mess.
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-3
Actual result: 0-3
Bayern did what they had to do and Lautern did what we thought they would do.
1. FC Nürnberg v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 2-2
Actual result: 1-0
Credit Pekhart as the creative influence once again as Hecking's side reaches parity.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-2
Bremen may not have been deserving winners but they have nine points through Matchday 4.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 0-0
German wunderkind Leno was the difference for Leverkusen and could be a star in the making. Dortmund, meanwhile, are shockingly having trouble finding goals.
Sunday
Hannover 96 v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 1-1
Hannover are unbeaten in four, although three of these matches have come at home in a fixture-heavy start for the 96ers.
FC Schalke 04 v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-0
The Royal Blues used a high tempo and persistence from Raul to take all three points at home.
Hertha BSC v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-0
Actual result: 1-0
Hertha have five points through four matches and probably deserve two, and neither side deserved much from this drab affair.
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 3-0
Looks like the Wolves may face a season-long relegation battle along with Freiburg.
Hamburger SV v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 3-4
The pressure increases on Oenning and now Elia could be on his way to Italy. The northern German side is an abject mess.
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-3
Actual result: 0-3
Bayern did what they had to do and Lautern did what we thought they would do.
1. FC Nürnberg v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 2-2
Actual result: 1-0
Credit Pekhart as the creative influence once again as Hecking's side reaches parity.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-2
Bremen may not have been deserving winners but they have nine points through Matchday 4.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 0-0
German wunderkind Leno was the difference for Leverkusen and could be a star in the making. Dortmund, meanwhile, are shockingly having trouble finding goals.
Sunday
Hannover 96 v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 1-1
Hannover are unbeaten in four, although three of these matches have come at home in a fixture-heavy start for the 96ers.
FC Schalke 04 v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-0
The Royal Blues used a high tempo and persistence from Raul to take all three points at home.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Lahm rips into Klinsi, others
Shockwaves have rippled through Germany due to Philipp Lahm's controversial book in which he rips just about everyone - this blog being a notable exception.
He takes shots at former Bayern managers Louis Van Gaal, Felix Magath and notably current United States boss Jürgen Klinsmann's tenure with the Bavarians.
"All the players knew after about eight weeks that it was not going to work out with Klinsmann," he wrote. "The remainder of that campaign was nothing but limiting the damage." It soon became clear that "the Klinsmann experiment had failed."
Lahm rehashes the widely-known claim that Klinsmann knows nothing about football tactics or coaching. Other Klinsmann tactics include yoga and a meditation garden and hokey speeches.
One memorable speech from Klinsmann's Bayern tenure was when he told Ze Roberto "You have to score a goal." Another one came from the 2006 World Cup when he brought in a speaker before Germany's first match to discuss the docile nature of the Costa Rican players in a talk that was plain weird.
Now the United States has certainly been charmed before by charismatic leaders who had no idea what they are doing.
With that in mind, Klinsmann may be the perfect fit for the United States.
He takes shots at former Bayern managers Louis Van Gaal, Felix Magath and notably current United States boss Jürgen Klinsmann's tenure with the Bavarians.
"All the players knew after about eight weeks that it was not going to work out with Klinsmann," he wrote. "The remainder of that campaign was nothing but limiting the damage." It soon became clear that "the Klinsmann experiment had failed."
Lahm rehashes the widely-known claim that Klinsmann knows nothing about football tactics or coaching. Other Klinsmann tactics include yoga and a meditation garden and hokey speeches.
One memorable speech from Klinsmann's Bayern tenure was when he told Ze Roberto "You have to score a goal." Another one came from the 2006 World Cup when he brought in a speaker before Germany's first match to discuss the docile nature of the Costa Rican players in a talk that was plain weird.
Now the United States has certainly been charmed before by charismatic leaders who had no idea what they are doing.
With that in mind, Klinsmann may be the perfect fit for the United States.
Bundesliga Matchday 4 predictions
Friday night
Hertha BSC v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-0
Babbel facing former team in what should be a cracking affair at the Olympic Stadium.
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-2
The Wolves have had plenty of time to digest an embarrassing performance and Cisse's transfer request can't help the mood at the Badenova.
Hamburger SV v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 2-1
TBG have to believe that Hamburg get off the mark against the league's worst side.
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-3
Although K-Town won this fixture last season, it's difficult to see a repeat.
1. FC Nürnberg v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 2-2
This match has draw written all over it.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 3-1
Bremen's kamikaze style may not fit too well in a charged-up Rhein-Neckar.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 1-2
Second v. first from last season, and we believe the champions will once again rise to the occasion against a Leverkusen outfit (again) distracted by Michael Ballack.
Sunday
Hannover 96 v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 1-1
Hannover progressed in Europe in thrilling fashion and could be ripe for a letdown.
FC Schalke 04 v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-1
Although 'Gladbach look like world beaters, Huntelaar and company look very tough in Gelsenkirchen.
Hertha BSC v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-0
Babbel facing former team in what should be a cracking affair at the Olympic Stadium.
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-2
The Wolves have had plenty of time to digest an embarrassing performance and Cisse's transfer request can't help the mood at the Badenova.
Hamburger SV v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 2-1
TBG have to believe that Hamburg get off the mark against the league's worst side.
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-3
Although K-Town won this fixture last season, it's difficult to see a repeat.
1. FC Nürnberg v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 2-2
This match has draw written all over it.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 3-1
Bremen's kamikaze style may not fit too well in a charged-up Rhein-Neckar.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 1-2
Second v. first from last season, and we believe the champions will once again rise to the occasion against a Leverkusen outfit (again) distracted by Michael Ballack.
Sunday
Hannover 96 v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 1-1
Hannover progressed in Europe in thrilling fashion and could be ripe for a letdown.
FC Schalke 04 v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-1
Although 'Gladbach look like world beaters, Huntelaar and company look very tough in Gelsenkirchen.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 3 review
Friday night
Mönchengladbach v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 4-1
From 16th-place to top of the table! Getting rid of Michael Bradley and hiring former Hertha coach Favre have done wonders for Gladbach!
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 5-3
Bremen could not stop Cisse, but they couldn't be stopped themselves, either.
Borussia Dortmund v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 3-0
Actual result: 2-0
Klopp's men had to work for the result after a first-half stalemate in this scrappy affair.
Bayern München v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 5-0
Hamburg vowed they would not lose 6-0 in this fixture like last year. They were right, we suppose.
VfB Stuttgart v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 0-1
Kiessling's first-half strike was the difference in this evenly-matched contest.
FC Augsburg v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 0-2
Hoffenheim are among a group on six points, and looking very good in the process.
1. FC Koln v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-1
The home side were unlucky not to take all three points after a dominant second-half display.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 2-4
A stunning second-half turn of events displayed Schalke's class and punctured Mainz's early aura of invincibility.
Hannover 96 v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 1-1
A harsh result for a Hannover side that deserved all three points. Will it sap the energy of the 96ers for their important trip to Spain this week?
Mönchengladbach v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 4-1
From 16th-place to top of the table! Getting rid of Michael Bradley and hiring former Hertha coach Favre have done wonders for Gladbach!
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 5-3
Bremen could not stop Cisse, but they couldn't be stopped themselves, either.
Borussia Dortmund v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 3-0
Actual result: 2-0
Klopp's men had to work for the result after a first-half stalemate in this scrappy affair.
Bayern München v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 5-0
Hamburg vowed they would not lose 6-0 in this fixture like last year. They were right, we suppose.
VfB Stuttgart v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 0-1
Kiessling's first-half strike was the difference in this evenly-matched contest.
FC Augsburg v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 0-2
Hoffenheim are among a group on six points, and looking very good in the process.
1. FC Koln v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 1-1
The home side were unlucky not to take all three points after a dominant second-half display.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 2-4
A stunning second-half turn of events displayed Schalke's class and punctured Mainz's early aura of invincibility.
Hannover 96 v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 1-1
A harsh result for a Hannover side that deserved all three points. Will it sap the energy of the 96ers for their important trip to Spain this week?
Friday, August 19, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 3 predictions
Friday night
Mönchengladbach v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Remarkably the winner will go top of the table but it's difficult to see the home side prevailing.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 2-0
Bremen should recover nicely from a defeat at Leverkusen by outclassing Freiburg.
Borussia Dortmund v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 3-0
Dortmund's Gundogan will score against his former team to get the champions back on track.
Bayern München v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Hamburg are in disarray and the Allianz is not the place to fix those type of woes.
VfB Stuttgart v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 2-0
This may be the featured matchup of the weekend, and Stuttgart should give the home fans plenty to cheer about.
FC Augsburg v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 1-2
FCA has lasted unbeaten longer than champions Dortmund, but Sascha Molders and company could face a rude awakening against a revitalized Hoffenheim side.
1. FC Koln v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 3-1
Solbakken should be able to save his job in what shapes up to be his side's easiest fixture of the season.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 2-1
Lewis Holtby returns to the Coface Arena - his hard-to-figure side flopped in Europe and could face the same fate that Andre Schurrle did two weeks ago against the surprising table toppers.
Hannover 96 v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 1-2
Hannover are flying with three wins in three games, but prioritizing next week's trip to Spain could be costly against a Hertha side brimming with confidence.
Mönchengladbach v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Remarkably the winner will go top of the table but it's difficult to see the home side prevailing.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 2-0
Bremen should recover nicely from a defeat at Leverkusen by outclassing Freiburg.
Borussia Dortmund v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 3-0
Dortmund's Gundogan will score against his former team to get the champions back on track.
Bayern München v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Hamburg are in disarray and the Allianz is not the place to fix those type of woes.
VfB Stuttgart v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 2-0
This may be the featured matchup of the weekend, and Stuttgart should give the home fans plenty to cheer about.
FC Augsburg v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 1-2
FCA has lasted unbeaten longer than champions Dortmund, but Sascha Molders and company could face a rude awakening against a revitalized Hoffenheim side.
1. FC Koln v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 3-1
Solbakken should be able to save his job in what shapes up to be his side's easiest fixture of the season.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 2-1
Lewis Holtby returns to the Coface Arena - his hard-to-figure side flopped in Europe and could face the same fate that Andre Schurrle did two weeks ago against the surprising table toppers.
Hannover 96 v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 1-2
Hannover are flying with three wins in three games, but prioritizing next week's trip to Spain could be costly against a Hertha side brimming with confidence.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 2 review
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-2
Mainz are in the top spot and showing fight in the post-Holtby and Schurrle era.
Hamburger SV v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 2-2
Hamburg were outplayed badly by the unlucky capital city side, which hit the goalframe at least four times and probably deserved all three points.
FC Schalke 04 v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 5-1
It may already be crisis time for Solbakken at the Rheinenergie.
VfL Wolfsburg v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 0-1
A harsh result for the home side as Gustavo rescued Bayern from a winless start.
1. FC Nürnberg v. Hannover 96
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-2
Abdellaoue strikes again as Hannover joins Mainz as the only clubs on six points.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-0
TBG predicted a loss for the champions, and Salihovic's wonder strike made it a reality.
Mönchengladbach v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 1-1
Gladbach hold on after Brouwers' dismissal and Favre's men are off to a strong start.
Sunday
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 1-1
If this was billed as a relegation six-pointer, this outcome means that both teams have plenty to worry about.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-0
Leverkusen were well worth the three points as Kadlec was on target for the late winner.
SC Freiburg v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-2
Mainz are in the top spot and showing fight in the post-Holtby and Schurrle era.
Hamburger SV v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 2-2
Hamburg were outplayed badly by the unlucky capital city side, which hit the goalframe at least four times and probably deserved all three points.
FC Schalke 04 v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 5-1
It may already be crisis time for Solbakken at the Rheinenergie.
VfL Wolfsburg v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 0-1
A harsh result for the home side as Gustavo rescued Bayern from a winless start.
1. FC Nürnberg v. Hannover 96
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-2
Abdellaoue strikes again as Hannover joins Mainz as the only clubs on six points.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-0
TBG predicted a loss for the champions, and Salihovic's wonder strike made it a reality.
Mönchengladbach v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 1-1
Gladbach hold on after Brouwers' dismissal and Favre's men are off to a strong start.
Sunday
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 1-1
If this was billed as a relegation six-pointer, this outcome means that both teams have plenty to worry about.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 1-0
Leverkusen were well worth the three points as Kadlec was on target for the late winner.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 2 predictions
Saturday
SC Freiburg v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 2-1
Tuchel used US basketball star Michael Jordan to inspire his team in a rousing opener, but Freiburg should be up for this challenge.
Hamburger SV v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 2-0
Hamburg are injury-hit without Guerrero and former Hertha man Kacar, but the Berliners are simply too woeful to gain anything in this spot.
FC Schalke 04 v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 3-1
Schalke were a tad unlucky in their opener and should bounce back at home since the Goats haven't won in Gelsenkirchen since 1993.
VfL Wolfsburg v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-1
No Robben for Bayern could mean no victories, and the Wolves will be ready to play in front of their supporters after a rousing away victory.
1. FC Nürnberg v. Hannover 96
Prediction: 2-1
Three points for either side would put the winner on six in a matchup of surprising sides from last season.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 2-1
BVB usually struggle against Hoffenheim and may be caught reading their press clippings. Holger Stanislawski's men should be fired up after they feel they were wronged at Hannover last weekend.
Mönchengladbach v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-2
Stuttgart are unbeaten in their last 10 against 'Gladbach and TBG likes them to smash-and-grab all the points.
Sunday
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 1-1
FCA are already referring to this as a relegation six-pointer on Matchday 2. They may be right, with Hertha looking equally woeful.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 2-1
Although Leverkusen have major problems in goal, it's tough to believe that Bremen will have any success on their travels at this point.
SC Freiburg v. FSV Mainz 05
Prediction: 2-1
Tuchel used US basketball star Michael Jordan to inspire his team in a rousing opener, but Freiburg should be up for this challenge.
Hamburger SV v. Hertha BSC
Prediction: 2-0
Hamburg are injury-hit without Guerrero and former Hertha man Kacar, but the Berliners are simply too woeful to gain anything in this spot.
FC Schalke 04 v. 1. FC Koln
Prediction: 3-1
Schalke were a tad unlucky in their opener and should bounce back at home since the Goats haven't won in Gelsenkirchen since 1993.
VfL Wolfsburg v. Bayern München
Prediction: 1-1
No Robben for Bayern could mean no victories, and the Wolves will be ready to play in front of their supporters after a rousing away victory.
1. FC Nürnberg v. Hannover 96
Prediction: 2-1
Three points for either side would put the winner on six in a matchup of surprising sides from last season.
1899 Hoffenheim v. Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: 2-1
BVB usually struggle against Hoffenheim and may be caught reading their press clippings. Holger Stanislawski's men should be fired up after they feel they were wronged at Hannover last weekend.
Mönchengladbach v. VfB Stuttgart
Prediction: 1-2
Stuttgart are unbeaten in their last 10 against 'Gladbach and TBG likes them to smash-and-grab all the points.
Sunday
1. FC Kaiserslautern v. FC Augsburg
Prediction: 1-1
FCA are already referring to this as a relegation six-pointer on Matchday 2. They may be right, with Hertha looking equally woeful.
Bayer Leverkusen v. Werder Bremen
Prediction: 2-1
Although Leverkusen have major problems in goal, it's tough to believe that Bremen will have any success on their travels at this point.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Bundesliga at forefront of new technology
As regular followers of this blog know, the Bundesliga is the most exciting football league in the world with plenty of goals and terrific fan support that is unparalleled in nature.
Now the league is stepping up in terms of technology with some state-of-the-art new statistics. This impressive work is being done by Munich company Impire, which is implementing a tracking system to better analyze the game.
We at TBG give a salute to Impire and the Bundesliga for helping bring to light this new innovative system of looking at football. It's a terrific idea!
Now the league is stepping up in terms of technology with some state-of-the-art new statistics. This impressive work is being done by Munich company Impire, which is implementing a tracking system to better analyze the game.
We at TBG give a salute to Impire and the Bundesliga for helping bring to light this new innovative system of looking at football. It's a terrific idea!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 1 review
Friday night
Borussia Dortmund v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 3-1
That's one exact final score.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 2-0
Make that two exact final scores.
1. FC Koln v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 0-3
Who knew the Wolves would bare their fangs?
VfB Stuttgart v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 3-0
This was really a lot closer than the scoreline, although the Swabians were deserved winners.
Hannover 96 v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 2-1
Hannover get off to the winning start this blog predicted.
FC Augsburg v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 2-2
Augsburg get a solid result in their debut.
Hertha BSC v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 0-1
A woeful effort from Hertha, who look like they have no idea how to play football at all.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 2-0
A shock result at Coface Arena as Schurrle sees a Mainz win in his return.
Bayern München v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-0
Actual result: 0-1
Leave it to Bayern to make this blog look bad in the simplest of fixtures.
HERO OF THE WEEK: Augsburg hitman Sascha Molders gets a brace and becomes the first FCA player to strike in the top flight.
GOAT OF THE WEEK: Leverkusen goalkeeper Fabian Giefer's miscue put Mainz in front and made Robin Dutt look like a fool for taking American David Yelldell out of the 11 after a DFB-Pokal flameout.
Borussia Dortmund v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
Actual result: 3-1
That's one exact final score.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 2-0
Make that two exact final scores.
1. FC Koln v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 0-3
Who knew the Wolves would bare their fangs?
VfB Stuttgart v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 3-0
This was really a lot closer than the scoreline, although the Swabians were deserved winners.
Hannover 96 v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 2-1
Actual result: 2-1
Hannover get off to the winning start this blog predicted.
FC Augsburg v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 1-1
Actual result: 2-2
Augsburg get a solid result in their debut.
Hertha BSC v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 2-0
Actual result: 0-1
A woeful effort from Hertha, who look like they have no idea how to play football at all.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 1-2
Actual result: 2-0
A shock result at Coface Arena as Schurrle sees a Mainz win in his return.
Bayern München v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-0
Actual result: 0-1
Leave it to Bayern to make this blog look bad in the simplest of fixtures.
HERO OF THE WEEK: Augsburg hitman Sascha Molders gets a brace and becomes the first FCA player to strike in the top flight.
GOAT OF THE WEEK: Leverkusen goalkeeper Fabian Giefer's miscue put Mainz in front and made Robin Dutt look like a fool for taking American David Yelldell out of the 11 after a DFB-Pokal flameout.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Bundesliga Matchday 1 predictions
Friday night
Borussia Dortmund v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
As predicted in our season preview, TBG is 1 for 1 in predicting exact scores in 2011-12.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 2-0
Bremen will not want anything less than the maximum against surely the worst team in the top flight.
1. FC Koln v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 2-1
TBG will favor the home side since the Wolves seem to be in disarray.
VfB Stuttgart v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 1-1
A draw seems about right for two teams we forecast as finishing in the Champions League places.
Hannover 96 v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 2-1
Hannover have looked strong in preseason and should have enough to get the points at home.
FC Augsburg v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 1-1
This battle of the 'burgs' will give the Bavarians a well-earned point.
Hertha BSC v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 2-0
There is plenty of anticipation in the nation's capital for Hertha's return to the top flight while Nurnberg have injury problems in defence.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 1-2
Two teams entering off Cup shocks, Leverkusen exiting the German Cup while Mainz left Europe.
Bayern München v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-0
Gladbach have provided stiff resistance in the past at the Allianz but not in this curtain-raiser for Jupp Heynkes.
Borussia Dortmund v. Hamburger SV
Prediction: 3-1
As predicted in our season preview, TBG is 1 for 1 in predicting exact scores in 2011-12.
Saturday
Werder Bremen v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern
Prediction: 2-0
Bremen will not want anything less than the maximum against surely the worst team in the top flight.
1. FC Koln v. VfL Wolfsburg
Prediction: 2-1
TBG will favor the home side since the Wolves seem to be in disarray.
VfB Stuttgart v. FC Schalke 04
Prediction: 1-1
A draw seems about right for two teams we forecast as finishing in the Champions League places.
Hannover 96 v. 1899 Hoffenheim
Prediction: 2-1
Hannover have looked strong in preseason and should have enough to get the points at home.
FC Augsburg v. SC Freiburg
Prediction: 1-1
This battle of the 'burgs' will give the Bavarians a well-earned point.
Hertha BSC v. 1. FC Nürnberg
Prediction: 2-0
There is plenty of anticipation in the nation's capital for Hertha's return to the top flight while Nurnberg have injury problems in defence.
Sunday
FSV Mainz 05 v. Bayer Leverkusen
Prediction: 1-2
Two teams entering off Cup shocks, Leverkusen exiting the German Cup while Mainz left Europe.
Bayern München v. Mönchengladbach
Prediction: 3-0
Gladbach have provided stiff resistance in the past at the Allianz but not in this curtain-raiser for Jupp Heynkes.
Bundesliga Season Preview
Welcome back to all of our loyal followers. Yes, it's time once again to get the world's most exciting football league kick-started and TBG has your forecast to get you through all the fun.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLACES
1. Borussia Dortmund - Although many believe that the champions will be unable to repeat after losing Nuri Sahin to Real Madrid and facing the arduous task of Champions League, don't believe it. They will have to survive the first month or so without Paraguayan ace Lucas Barrios, but the addition of wunderkind Ilkay Gundogan should make up for Sahin's loss.
2. Bayern Munich - The heavy favorite to regain the crown, Bayern always seem to win it in seasons that end in even numbers. Jupp Heynckes has strikers galore and should the Bavarians get off to a better start this year, things should fall into place.
3. Schalke 04 - This is TBG's most hated club because of the rivalry with Hertha, but there is plenty of talent here for the Champions League semifinalists. With Lewis Holtby back in the mix, there is potential for a return to Europe's most prestigious competition.
4. VfB Stuttgart - This was a better side as the 2010-11 season went on and should contend this season for a Champions League berth since Germany gets four now, having passed Italy in the UEFA coefficients.
EUROPA LEAGUE
5. Werder Bremen - There is still plenty of experience here for Thomas Schaaf to redeem himself after last season's disaster. Bremen were a defensive nightmare but it's time to fix those woes and also get Marko Marin back on track.
6. Hamburg SV - It's true this squad is young and unproven in some areas but a veteran strike force of Paulo Guerrero and Mladen Petric should do well enough to get Hamburg into Europe. Now can Elijiro Elia and Gojko Kacar rediscover their past form?
ALMOST IN EUROPE
7. Hertha BSC - There's nothing special about the promoted side from the nation's capital, and some would say nothing interesting. But what Marcus Babbel has brought is some much-needed energy and optimism, and a Europa League place is there for the taking if Adrian Ramos and Pierre Michel Lasogga can fire.
8. FC Koln - The Goats played some of the league's most exciting football last season. If they can duplicate that and get off to a better start, they can challenge for Europe behind a motivated Podolski - who would like nothing better than to lead his home side to glory.
9. Bayer Leverkusen - Andre Schurrle brings some much-needed youth to these graybeards but playing Champions League football and navigating through the league could be a big ask, as it was for Schalke and Bremen last season. Plus, Michael Ballack's situation should continue to be a distraction for the side which crashed out of the German Cup in spectacular fashion.
10. Hannover 96 - The 96ers overachieved last season to get into Europe, which should be a short stay having drawn Spanish giants Sevilla. Logic only dictates that Hannover will come back to Earth this season.
MID-TABLE MEDIOCRITY
11. FC Nurnberg - These Bavarians punched above their weight last year and nearly crashed the European party. They will be a bit further off the pace this season, for sure.
12. 1899 Hoffenheim - There are some interesting African players here in Chinedu Obasi and Prince Tagoe, while Vedad Ibesevic still has yet to find his form from three years back. Anything is possible with this squad.
13. VfL Wolfsburg - Felix Magath's side is already out of the German Cup and he has already changed captains. Plus, the Wolves have yet to sell Diego. This is a mess that could get worse.
BARELY HANGING ON
14. Mainz 05 - This side already crashed out of Europe to some Romanian unknowns and will find life in the top flight difficult without Holtby and Schurrle. Survival would be impressive.
15. Augsburg FC - The top flight's third Bavarian side, Augsburg becomes the 51st different team to play in this division. There are few recognizable players, but Jos Luhukay previously coached 'Gladbach so he knows all about battling the drop.
PLAYOFF SPOT
16. Borussia Monchengladbach - This is where 'Gladbach finished last year and it should be another painful season. There's plenty of pressure on Venezuelan star Juan Arango and Cameroon striker Mohamadou Idrissou, since they have very little help.
GOING DOWN
17. SC Freiburg - Pappa Demba Cisse is one of the best unknown players in world football, but Freiburg's winning ways have surely come to an end. This squad has problems everywhere else, and should be able to sort them out in the Zweite Liga in 2012-13.
18. Kaiserslautern - It's hard to believe this side finished seventh last year - which would nearly be good enough for a European place this season. That miracle won't happen again - it will be a miracle if they stay up.
OPENING NIGHT PREDICTION
Dortmund 3, Hamburg 1
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLACES
1. Borussia Dortmund - Although many believe that the champions will be unable to repeat after losing Nuri Sahin to Real Madrid and facing the arduous task of Champions League, don't believe it. They will have to survive the first month or so without Paraguayan ace Lucas Barrios, but the addition of wunderkind Ilkay Gundogan should make up for Sahin's loss.
2. Bayern Munich - The heavy favorite to regain the crown, Bayern always seem to win it in seasons that end in even numbers. Jupp Heynckes has strikers galore and should the Bavarians get off to a better start this year, things should fall into place.
3. Schalke 04 - This is TBG's most hated club because of the rivalry with Hertha, but there is plenty of talent here for the Champions League semifinalists. With Lewis Holtby back in the mix, there is potential for a return to Europe's most prestigious competition.
4. VfB Stuttgart - This was a better side as the 2010-11 season went on and should contend this season for a Champions League berth since Germany gets four now, having passed Italy in the UEFA coefficients.
EUROPA LEAGUE
5. Werder Bremen - There is still plenty of experience here for Thomas Schaaf to redeem himself after last season's disaster. Bremen were a defensive nightmare but it's time to fix those woes and also get Marko Marin back on track.
6. Hamburg SV - It's true this squad is young and unproven in some areas but a veteran strike force of Paulo Guerrero and Mladen Petric should do well enough to get Hamburg into Europe. Now can Elijiro Elia and Gojko Kacar rediscover their past form?
ALMOST IN EUROPE
7. Hertha BSC - There's nothing special about the promoted side from the nation's capital, and some would say nothing interesting. But what Marcus Babbel has brought is some much-needed energy and optimism, and a Europa League place is there for the taking if Adrian Ramos and Pierre Michel Lasogga can fire.
8. FC Koln - The Goats played some of the league's most exciting football last season. If they can duplicate that and get off to a better start, they can challenge for Europe behind a motivated Podolski - who would like nothing better than to lead his home side to glory.
9. Bayer Leverkusen - Andre Schurrle brings some much-needed youth to these graybeards but playing Champions League football and navigating through the league could be a big ask, as it was for Schalke and Bremen last season. Plus, Michael Ballack's situation should continue to be a distraction for the side which crashed out of the German Cup in spectacular fashion.
10. Hannover 96 - The 96ers overachieved last season to get into Europe, which should be a short stay having drawn Spanish giants Sevilla. Logic only dictates that Hannover will come back to Earth this season.
MID-TABLE MEDIOCRITY
11. FC Nurnberg - These Bavarians punched above their weight last year and nearly crashed the European party. They will be a bit further off the pace this season, for sure.
12. 1899 Hoffenheim - There are some interesting African players here in Chinedu Obasi and Prince Tagoe, while Vedad Ibesevic still has yet to find his form from three years back. Anything is possible with this squad.
13. VfL Wolfsburg - Felix Magath's side is already out of the German Cup and he has already changed captains. Plus, the Wolves have yet to sell Diego. This is a mess that could get worse.
BARELY HANGING ON
14. Mainz 05 - This side already crashed out of Europe to some Romanian unknowns and will find life in the top flight difficult without Holtby and Schurrle. Survival would be impressive.
15. Augsburg FC - The top flight's third Bavarian side, Augsburg becomes the 51st different team to play in this division. There are few recognizable players, but Jos Luhukay previously coached 'Gladbach so he knows all about battling the drop.
PLAYOFF SPOT
16. Borussia Monchengladbach - This is where 'Gladbach finished last year and it should be another painful season. There's plenty of pressure on Venezuelan star Juan Arango and Cameroon striker Mohamadou Idrissou, since they have very little help.
GOING DOWN
17. SC Freiburg - Pappa Demba Cisse is one of the best unknown players in world football, but Freiburg's winning ways have surely come to an end. This squad has problems everywhere else, and should be able to sort them out in the Zweite Liga in 2012-13.
18. Kaiserslautern - It's hard to believe this side finished seventh last year - which would nearly be good enough for a European place this season. That miracle won't happen again - it will be a miracle if they stay up.
OPENING NIGHT PREDICTION
Dortmund 3, Hamburg 1
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