Centre-back under the spotlight: how HSV could line up against Köln | OneFootball

HSV faces an extremely important home game against 1. FC Köln this Saturday. These are the expected line-ups.

Merlin Polzin made it clear just on Thursday how immensely significant the duel of the traditional clubs is. "Both teams have a lot at stake, especially as the number of games decreases," explained the HSV coach. Effzeh coach Lukas Kwasniok, who could even face dismissal if they lose, also emphasized his team's "enthusiasm and unwavering belief."

For the second time in seven days, HSV faces a decisive encounter in the relegation battle. The team, which won 2-1 at VfL Wolfsburg last weekend, might see Polzin make changes in one or two positions.

In front of goalkeeper Daniel Heuer Fernandes, Daniel Elfadli left a weak impression in the Autostadt. The 28-year-old caused the penalty for the temporary 0-1 and appeared insecure beyond that. Warmed Omari is likely to start in his place against Köln. For the recently recovered key player Nicolas Capaldo, a starting eleven appearance might still be a week too early. The central defense will therefore be completed by Luka Vuskovic and Jordan Torunarigha. The recently strong William Mikelbrencis and Miro Muheim are set on the flanks.

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HSV: Wing Duel between Otele and Dompé

In front of the defense, Polzin relies on the well-established midfield duo of Nicolai Remberg and Sambi Lokonga. If fit, there's no getting past these two players this season. The same now applies to Fabio Vieira, who, after a substitute appearance due to illness in Wolfsburg, will start in the right half-space.

Nur die Raute – All news about HSV

On the left wing, there is a duel between Philip Otele and Jean-Luc Dompé. After his drink-driving incident and subsequent suspension, Dompé was back in the starting eleven against Wolfsburg and converted the penalty for the 2-1 winning goal. It's quite possible that he will get another chance this weekend.

In the center of the attack, much speaks for Ransford Königsdörffer. His main competitor, after Yussuf Poulsen's renewed injury, is the former Köln player Damion Downs. Robert Glatzel and youngster Otto Stange continue to play a rather minor role in Polzin's plans.

The expected HSV starting eleven at a glance: Heuer Fernandes – Mikelbrencis, Omari, Vuskovic, Torunarigha, Muheim – Remberg, Lokonga, Vieira, Dompé – Königsdörffer

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.