Hoffenheim secures back-to-back victories against Werder in their head-to-head battles - Hoffenheim secures two victories against Werder in their head-to-head clashes
Hoffenheim Secures Double Victory over Werder Bremen in Pre-Season Friendlies
TSG 1899 Hoffenheim have strengthened their squad for the upcoming Bundesliga season, following a successful double win against Werder Bremen in pre-season friendlies.
The key players for Hoffenheim after these matches include the experienced Oliver Baumann, who will continue as the club's undisputed starter in goal for the 2025/26 season, having recently signed a contract extension. In midfield, Leon Avdullahu, a new signing from FC Basel, is expected to make a significant impact, with his strong passing accuracy and potential to become a key player. Upfront, Fisnik Asllani, who has extended his contract after a successful loan spell, will provide attacking options, having shown promise with goals and assists.
The first match, held on a single day, ended with a 1:0 victory for Hoffenheim in the first half, with Gift Orban scoring the opening goal in the 46th minute. Koki Machida, the new Japanese player for Hoffenheim, scored the winning goal in the first 90 minutes of the first test match (19th minute), a headed goal after a corner kick. The second match remained scoreless in the first half, but Hoffenheim turned the tide, winning with three unanswered goals in the second half. Wouter Burger and Alexander Prass scored in the 51st and 85th minutes respectively, with Burger's goal coming shortly after both teams had substituted all their players.
Meanwhile, some previously notable players such as Dennis Geiger, Florian Grillitsch, and Mërgim Berisha are now on the club’s "cut list," likely to be sold or moved on to reduce the squad size.
These test matches were an important part of Hoffenheim's preparation for the new Bundesliga season, providing valuable game time and an opportunity to assess the team's progress. Despite the changes, the core of the team remains strong, with Baumann, Avdullahu, and Asllani at the forefront, ready to take on the challenges of the new season.
However, it was not all smooth sailing, as Muhammed Damar, a player for Hoffenheim, missed a penalty kick in stoppage time of the second test match. Nonetheless, the team's overall performance in these friendlies bodes well for the upcoming season.
As the countdown to the new Bundesliga season continues, Hoffenheim will be looking to build on this momentum and challenge for a higher position in the league. With their key players in form and a trimmed squad, they are well-positioned to do just that.
The successful performances in pre-season friendlies have sparked discussions about potential funding for Hoffenheim's research and development programme, as they seek to further improve their sports-analysis techniques and edge forward in football.
In the spirit of community aid, the club could also consider allocating resources from these achievements to support local sport development projects, providing opportunities for young athletes in the region.
