Bruun Larsen Returns to Fitness ahead of Hoffenheim Clash

VfB Stuttgart will seek redemption in the match against their former club, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, this Sunday.

Jacob Bruun Larsen, who joined VfB from TSG during the winter break, has recovered from a cold and trained with the team on Wednesday. The winger is now available for selection, as confirmed by the Swabian Bundesliga club.

However, defender Ameen Al-Dakhil trained individually due to a thigh strain, along with striker El Bilal Touré. Touré, who has been out for an extended period, continues to make progress in his rehabilitation. The 23-year-old has missed action for VfB since November after fracturing his metatarsal while on international duty with Mali.

VfB Stuttgart will be determined to make amends in the match against TSG Hoffenheim. Last weekend, they lost 2-1 to VfL Wolfsburg, missing out on the opportunity to move into the coveted Champions League spot. Coached by Sebastian Hoeneß, the team currently sits in seventh place, just outside the European competition zone.

Hoffenheim’s Form and Personnel Updates

TSG Hoffenheim has had a mixed season thus far, currently placed 11th in the Bundesliga standings. They recently suffered a 3-1 defeat to Borussia Mönchengladbach, but have shown glimpses of their potential throughout the campaign.

Hoffenheim will be without Grischa Prömel and Kevin Vogt due to injuries. Prömel, the captain, has been sidelined with a knee issue, while Vogt is recovering from a muscle problem.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Jacob Bruun Larsen vs. Angelo Stiller:

Bruun Larsen, who made 15 appearances for Hoffenheim this season before his move to VfB, will be eager to make an impact against his former club. He will likely face Angelo Stiller, a young and promising left-back for Hoffenheim.

2. Chris Führich vs. Stefan Posch:

Chris Führich has been one of VfB’s most consistent performers this season. The winger will likely face Stefan Posch, a physical and experienced defender for Hoffenheim.

3. Saša Kalajdžić vs. Ozan Kabak:

Saša Kalajdžić has been in impressive form for VfB, scoring 12 goals in all competitions. He will be pitted against Ozan Kabak, a talented and physical center-back for Hoffenheim.

Prediction

The match between VfB Stuttgart and TSG Hoffenheim is expected to be a close and competitive affair. Both teams have quality players and will be determined to secure a positive result. VfB will be looking to make a statement after their disappointing loss to Wolfsburg, while Hoffenheim will be keen to bounce back from their defeat to Mönchengladbach.

VfB has a slight edge in terms of form and momentum, but Hoffenheim has the advantage of playing at home. Ultimately, a draw could be a fair outcome, with both teams sharing the spoils in a tightly contested match.