Borussia Dortmund vs FC St Pauli: Bundesliga Match Preview and Predictions

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Borussia Dortmund is set to face FC St Pauli in a significant Bundesliga match, with the encounter holding different levels of importance for both teams. For Dortmund, the match is crucial in their pursuit of the Bundesliga title, while for St Pauli, it's about accumulating points to ensure their survival in the league. The match, scheduled to take place on Saturday, will see Dortmund aiming to build on their recent form, which includes a convincing 6:0 win over Union Berlin. However, they will be without the services of Julian Ryerson due to a grippal infection, and Felix Nmecha, who is still recovering from a knee injury.

Despite the challenges, Dortmund's coach, Niko Kovac, is optimistic about his team's chances, emphasizing the need to avoid risks, especially with players like Julian Brandt, who is dealing with musculature problems. The absence of Ryerson might see Yan Couto or Niklas Süle stepping in as replacements, with the possibility of Waldemar Anton also being considered for the position. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be key in determining the outcome of the match. St Pauli, on the other hand, is looking to capitalize on their recent escape from the immediate relegation zone, having managed to secure a six-point lead over the 16th position.

The historical head-to-head record between the two teams favors Dortmund, with 17 wins out of 26 matches, while St Pauli has managed only four victories, and five matches have ended in a draw. In their most recent encounters, Dortmund has secured two wins, with St Pauli managing one. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport Bundesliga 1, starting at 14:00, with the option to watch the match in a single-game format on Sky Sport Bundesliga 2, accompanied by commentator Hansi Küpper. Highlights of the match will be available on DAZN shortly after the final whistle.

FC St Pauli's coach, Alexander Blessin, has expressed his team's determination to make the most of the home advantage, acknowledging the challenges posed by Dortmund but also highlighting his team's growth and stability throughout the season. Blessin mentioned the importance of his players being "hellwach" (fully alert) throughout the 90 minutes to counter Dortmund's speed and agility in their transitional play. The match promises to be an intense and strategic encounter, with both teams aware of the significance of securing a favorable result.

In terms of team news, St Pauli has been dealing with several injuries and absences, including Carlo Boukhalfa, who suffered a bruise, and Connor Metcalfe, who was given a day off from training due to the intensity of the previous day's session. However, players like Manolis Saliakas have shown promising signs of recovery and might be included in the squad for the match against Dortmund. The team's ability to overcome their challenges and capitalize on Dortmund's away struggles will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match. The following are the match details and team statistics:

• Match: FC St Pauli vs Borussia Dortmund
• Date: Saturday
• Time: 15:30
• Broadcast: Sky Sport Bundesliga 1 and Sky Sport Bundesliga 2
• Highlights: Available on DAZN
• Head-to-head record: Dortmund - 17 wins, St Pauli - 4 wins, Draws - 5