Struggling to Stay Afloat: Freiburg's Challenges in Bundesliga
Freiburg's coach, Christian Streich, is urging patience and calm as the team struggles to find their feet in the Bundesliga, following a fourth game without a win. After drawing against newly promoted SV Darmstadt 98, Streich acknowledged the team's struggle with multiple challenges.
Injury concerns are mounting for the Breisgauers. Lukas Kübler is out with a broken toe, and captain Christian Günters' return is still uncertain. Merlin Röhl is also likely unavailable for the Europa League match against Olympiakos Piraeus due to a laceration. Streich emphasized the importance of mentally gathering strength in the face of these challenges.
Despite their woes, Freiburg managed to secure a draw against Darmstadt, keeping their hopes alive. But the team sits mid-table in the Bundesliga with 15 points, a place Streich deems misleading. He would prefer an additional two or three points, which would put the team in calmer waters.
Freiburg has demanding matches ahead, including away matches against FSV Mainz 05, VfL Wolfsburg, and 1. FC Heidenheim, as well as a home game against 1. FC Köln. To navigate this tough period, Streich stresses the importance of picking up a point or two in these matches, ideally securing two wins to put them in the green.
Far from Calm Waters
Freiburg's recent results have been a mix of stability and instability. Following two consecutive 1-0 wins at the start of February, the team climbed to sixth place in the league table. However, their overall performance throughout the season has been unpredictable, with four heavy defeats, including a 0-3 loss to St. Pauli and a 4-0 loss to VfB Stuttgart.
The team's negative goal difference of -8 is another concern. Despite their efforts, they have struggled to find the back of the net, which could impact their position in the standings.
Overcoming Challenges
Although specific details about the injuries are not available, Freiburg has a more balanced and deeper squad compared to some of their opponents, such as St. Pauli. The club management has made efforts to address squad issues, especially in the winter transfer window, bringing in five new signings to strengthen the team.
Freiburg's upcoming matches, including against St. Pauli, Werder Bremen, Augsburg, and RB Leipzig, will test their consistency and ability to maintain their position in the top half of the table. Given their recent form and the challenges posed by these opponents, there is uncertainty about their stability in the Bundesliga standings.
In essence, while Freiburg has shown some positive results lately, their inconsistent performance and negative goal difference are concerns. The upcoming matches will determine their ability to secure European qualification and maintain their current position in the Bundesliga standings.
