RBL looking to "seize a huge opportunity" | OneFootball

The Bundesliga has entered the final stretch, and with only eight matches remaining, the need to win every single game only increases. On Friday evening, RB Leipzig could draw level on points with third-place side TSG Hoffenheim by beating them at the Red Bull Arena.

Ole Werner is well aware of how important this game could be. "It's a game at the top of the table against one of our direct rivals. We have a huge opportunity here and we want to seize it with everything we have," emphasised RBL's head coach in his press conference ahead of the game.

A physical opponent

According to Ole, no matter how the game finishes, nothing will be decided at full time. However, three points against a team so close in the table could give the Red Bulls the momentum they need heading into the decisive weeks ahead. "If the game goes well for us, it could give us a real boost," he said.

Leipzig's opponents on Friday were fighting for their place in the Bundesliga this time last year, but after a squad overhaul in the summer, they have become contenders for Champions League qualification.

Werner explained Hoffenheim's strengths: "They are a very physical side who look to defend man-to-man. They will always look to disrupt attacks with strong tackles and clever fouls."

More ice-cold finishing

It will be important for Leipzig to push forward quickly after winning the ball, before Hoffenheim can get back. It will also be crucial that RBL take their chances with the same clinical finishing that has defined them for much of the season. "Clarity is what will need more than anything else," explained Ole Werner.

No Assan Ouedraogo until after the international break means that the midfield is still not at full strength, however Ole Werner still has a decision to make. Xaver Schlager made his return from injury last weekend and is once again an option for Friday's game. But will he start?

Schlager or Banzuzi – who will start?

Ezechiel Banzuzi made just his second Bundesliga start against Stuttgart. "He was a presence in midfield and won the ball back for us a lot," said Ole Werner, who also added: "Xaver was playing really well before his injury. He's fully fit again and makes us stronger."

Who will get the nod and who will start on the bench? "It's going to be a difficult decision," explained RBL's head coach – a decision that will likely be as close as the game itself.

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