The Bundesliga returns with excitement as FC St. Pauli prepares to host Eintracht Frankfurt on January 11, 2025, marking their first match of the new year. The stakes are high for St. Pauli, who currently sit precariously at 14th position, desperately seeking points to escape the relegation zone. Frankfurt, on the other hand, enters the clash on solid ground, positioned at third place and eager to strengthen their challenge for Champions League qualification.
After the winter break, both teams are set to resume their campaign with differing ambitions. St. Pauli aims for redemption after losing their last match against Eintracht Braunschweig, 2-1, which followed their morale-boosting 1-0 victory against VfB Stuttgart. This dip contrasts sharply with Frankfurt’s season, which boasts an impressive record of 35 goals scored, making them one of the most potent attacking teams this season.
"It's been tough, and we need to do everything right to stand up against such formidable opponents," stated St. Pauli coach Alexander Blessin. His team must prepare for Eintracht’s high-speed attack, featuring star players like Omar Marmoush, who has been pivotal this season, netting 13 goals.
"They have incredible speed and teamwork, making it challenging to defend against them," Blessin acknowledged, as he geared up his squad for what promises to be an intense match. Marmoush, who played for St. Pauli before making his mark at Frankfurt, poses a unique challenge for their defense.
Former St. Pauli forward Igor Matanović also returns to his roots, now donning the Eintracht jersey. "Returning to Millerntor feels special for me. The atmosphere here is electrifying, and it's never easy as an away team," Matanović shared before the match. His dual role as both familiar face and competitor adds to the emotional weight of the game.
Frankfurt's success this season stems from their collective strength under coach Dino Toppmöller, who has implemented an aggressive attacking style mixed with tactical flexibility. Despite recent struggles, with no wins across their last five matches, they remain optimistic. Toppmöller’s side needs to tweak their defensive strategies, as they’ve recently shown vulnerability at the back.
Historically, this matchup has favored Frankfurt, with their last victory stampeding over St. Pauli, and they intend to extend this positive streak. The teams have encountered each other 15 times previously, with Frankfurt having won three out of five recent contests.
For St. Pauli, the match is not just about points but about regaining confidence. A strong defensive structure has been their hallmark so far with only 19 goals conceded, second only to Bayern Munich. Their ability to hold off Frankfurt's high-pressing and fast-paced offensive play may determine their success on the day.
The stage is set at the Millerntor-Stadion, where St. Pauli fans are expected to rally behind their team, creating one of the season's most vibrant atmospheres. "A good start to the year is what we need to boost our spirits and perform at home," Blessin added.
For fans unable to attend the game, Eintracht Frankfurt has ensured various platforms for viewing. A live broadcast will be available through Sky Sport Bundesliga, commencing at 15:15 local time. The club's radio, EintrachtFM, will also provide real-time commentary for supporters.
With the match just hours away, players from both teams engage with hopes running high. For St. Pauli, every point matters as they fight their way out of the relegation region, and for Frankfurt, securing additional points could keep their Champions League dreams alive. Tensions run high as the clubs gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating Bundesliga encounter!