HSV Braces for Braunschweig Clash: "We've Been Warned"
Tim Walter, HSV coach, is issuing a cautionary note ahead of their Bundesliga 2 encounter with Eintracht Braunschweig. "We've been warned," the 48-year-old said on Wednesdays, alluding to past struggles against supposedly lesser opponents, especially on the road. HSV has suffered losses against promoted teams SV Elversberg and VfL Osnabrück this season, with the most recent setback occurring at Holstein Kiel (2:4).
However, HSV boasts a formidable home record in the Bundesliga 2. The Hanseatic side has emerged victorious in each of their six league matches at the Volksparkstadion for this clash with Braunschweig. Yet, the defensive situation is troublesome. Captain Sebastian Schonlau (calf) is still out, and Dennis Hadzikadunic has been handed a suspension after accumulating five yellow cards against Kiel. Hadzikadunic and Guilherme Ramos, who sustained an adductor injury during the game, were the central defensive pair in Kiel. Ramos and his counterpart, Stephan Ambrosius, are now back in training.
Ramos's return is essential to bolster defenders. Walter has a plethora of options to choose from. Moritz Heyer could be shifted to central defense, while young talents Luis Seifert and Valon Zumberi could be given opportunities to shine. Yet, Walter is confident, acknowledging, "There are many options."
HSV's struggles against smaller teams this season notwithstanding, their formidable home record remains a strength. Tim Walter is cautious but aims to maintain this steady track record against Eintracht Braunschweig, who currently occupy the 17th position in the Bundesliga 2.
Given HSV's recent struggles and injury concerns, Walter might consider lineup changes and strategic adjustments to ease the pressure. Specifically, he could leverage his defensive strength to compensate for the absence of key players, employ tactical flexibility to disrupt Braunschweig's game, and utilize home-field advantage to harness the energy of the loyal crowd.
