Hannover 96 set for derby showdown
It's been three years since Hannover 96 last clashed with Eintracht Braunschweig, and the Reds are the clear favorites going into Sunday's derby showdown. With a sold-out arena of 42,000 spectators (4,200 from Braunschweig), expectations are high.
But the 96 midfield has a familiar feel, with retired footballers Dominik Kaiser and Mike Frantz still making an impact. Their past victory against Eintracht, a dominant 4:1, remains Hanover's record highest derby home win, though the record is now under threat.
Hannover's impressive form this season has seen them sit comfortably in the upper echelons of the 2. Bundesliga, with 24 goals scored (eight by Cedric Teuchert) and three consecutive home wins to their name. The hosts' high-quality squad, from keeper to striker, has Eintracht coach Marc Pfitzner (39) singing their praises.
"Hannover's team is extremely high-quality," Pfitzner enthused, adding, "They're a strong team that might even play at the top until the end."
However, Eintracht's current form is a stark contrast to their rivals. Despite boasting eleven points and eleven goals after eleven matchdays in the 2020/21 relegation season, they now languish at the bottom with only five points and seven goals.
The absence of attacking force Anthony Ujah due to a hamstring injury is a major blow, while coach Jens Härtel (54) was dismissed, and Marc Pfitzner (39) has been brought in. His debut last weekend against Fortuna Düsseldorf was marred by a 1:4 loss, and there are rumors of sporting director Peter Vollmann (65) being sacked.
But despite these challenges, Pfitzner remains optimistic. "My boys are really up for the game," he insisted. "We are well-prepared. My boys will be on fire and give their all on the pitch."
Current Form and Prediction for Hannover 96 and Eintracht Braunschweig
Hannover 96 Hannover 96 has demonstrated consistent form in the 2. Bundesliga, currently holding fourth place in the league table. They recently secured a 1-0 win against Jahn Regensburg thanks to a goal from Jessic Ngankam on 35 minutes.
Eintracht Braunschweig Eintracht Braunschweig has also been competing well in the league. Their recent outing resulted in a 0-0 draw against Schalke 04.
Prediction for the Derby Match
The upcoming derby between Hannover 96 and Eintracht Braunschweig promises to be a thrilling affair. With Hannover's impressive home form and Eintracht's determination to turn things around, expectations are high. As both teams seek to claim bragging rights, the showdown will likely be a tense and closely-contested match.
