This Saturday, Borussia Dortmund will face Union Berlin in the 23rd round of the Bundesliga at Signal Iduna Park, kicking off at 2:30 PM (Brasilia time) on February 22, 2025. This match is pivotal for both teams as they navigate their respective goals within the league. Dortmund seeks to improve its standing, currently at 11th place with 29 points from 22 matches, following a tough 2-0 loss to Bochum last week. Meanwhile, Union Berlin, positioned 13th with 24 points, aims to secure valuable points to rise from the relegation battle.
The home team, under the management of Niko Kovac, will likely field goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, with defenders Marius Wolf, Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Raphael Guerreiro. The midfield is expected to feature Marcel Sabitzer and Julian Brandt, supporting attackers Karim Adeyemi, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Serhou Guirassy, the team's leading scorer with 9 goals. Missing from the lineup is Felix Nmecha due to injury.
Union Berlin, coached by Urs Fischer, plans to counter with goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow and defenders Trimmel, Knoche, Doekhi, and Leite. The midfield includes Khedira and Haberer, aiming to facilitate quick transitions to attackers Becker, Michel, and Siebatcheu. The team is seeking to bolster its current momentum to avoid slipping back toward the relegation zone.
Dortmund, currently experiencing its difficulties this season, has had fluctuated performances, showing inconsistency on the pitch. Despite recent Champions League success against Sporting Lisbon, their domestic form has left fans concerned. The club's current Bundesliga record stands at only eight wins against nine defeats, which reflects the challenges they've been confronting.
On the other hand, Union Berlin's situation has improved in recent weeks, but they still face tough competition. The team managed to earn precious points, mainly due to their defensively disciplined play and ability to capitalize on counterattacks. Their most recent performances show they are committed to distancing themselves from relegation concerns.
Both teams have met 13 times historically, with Dortmund claiming victory most often—eight wins compared to Berlin's four, with one match ending in a draw. Previously, these encounters have historically favored the home side, adding pressure on Dortmund to deliver at home.
Betting odds favor Borussia Dortmund for this match, largely attributed to their home advantage and prior history against Berlin. Analysts predict less than 3.5 goals for the match, reflecting both teams' focused defensive strategies. Speculations surrounding the match indicate it could end with successful strikes from both sides due to their respective offensive capabilities.
Those wishing to watch the action can tune in via OneFootball, RedeTV, or the Canal GOAT on YouTube. Referee Bastian Dankert will officiate this high-stakes Bundesliga clash. With tensions high and both sides eager for victories, fans are set for an exhilarating showdown this Saturday!