HSV's Captain Schonlau Back in Action Ahead of Paderborn Clash
After a long spell on the sidelines due to a calf injury, HSV's captain Sebastian Schonlau (29) is set to step back onto the pitch this Saturday (1pm) against his former club SC Paderborn. The defensive leader has only managed 90 minutes in two league games since last summer, but his impact was evident in the cup tie against Hertha, playing 61 minutes in the 6:8 (n.E.) defeat.
Coach Tim Walter (48) is thrilled to have Schonlau back, admiring his impressive positional play, build-up, and transitional skills. The central defender is a vital part of the team and has played an essential role in shaping HSV's game, providing stability and structure.
After returning from injury, Schonlau expressed his pride in his teammates and their fighting spirit, despite the cup exit. He acknowledged that it was a disappointing result but commended the performance, which included a strong mentality and effort from the boys.
Despite the team's cup failure, Walter is determined to channel the resulting anger and disappointment into a victory against Paderborn, as HSV aims to secure an impressive eighth home win of the season.
The upcoming game at the Volksparkstadion promises to be a challenge, with around 52,000 spectators in attendance. While Paderborn has flown under the radar this season, their quality is undeniable, boasting a high percentage of possession and individual talent in players like Muslija, Conteh, Kinsombi, and Bilbija.
HSV, however, is also celebrating the success of youngster Bilal Yalcinkaya (17), who recently won the U17 World Cup. While Walter acknowledges his talents, he stresses that the teenager has to work hard to earn his place in the team.
As the 2. Bundesliga season progresses, HSV continues to demonstrate a strong form, with Schonlau's return proving instrumental in their success.
Integrating Enrichment Data:
HSV is currently in 4th place in the 2. Bundesliga, with 34 points from 19 matches, having won 9 games, drawn 7, and lost 3. They have a positive goal difference of +18. The team's most repeated starting XI includes goalkeeper D. Fernandes, defenders S. Schonlau, D. Hadžikadunić, and Miro Muheim; midfielder J. Meffert, and forward J. Dompé. Merlin Polzin, the coach, has a winning percentage of 55.56% from 9 matches, with 5 wins, 4 draws, and no losses.
HSV has been in a strong form this season, with a consistent run of results. They have averaged 2 goals per match, scoring 47 goals and conceding 28 in 23 competitive matches. Meanwhile, Paderborn is currently 8th in the 2. Bundesliga with 31 points from 19 matches.
Sources:
- Bild.de
- Lighthouse Hamburg
- Regio Sport Hamburg
- Sport - Lighthouse Hamburg
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[2]: Sport - Lighthouse Hamburg [3]: Regio Sport Hamburg
