Hamburger SV head into their final home game of the year with mixed feelings. While the promoted side have recently shown courage and commitment, the away defeat in Hoffenheim (4–1) once again highlighted the defensive weaknesses of the northern Germans. In particular, the lack of structure against strong attacking opponents and individual marking errors cost HSV control of the game early on. At home, however, Hamburg are far more stable, playing with high intensity, plenty of running and strong support from the crowd – factors that can play a decisive role at the end of the year.
Eintracht Frankfurt, by contrast, travel with renewed confidence. After a short negative run, they secured an important 1–0 win against Augsburg, which may have been fortunate but delivered much-needed points and stability. Frankfurt have often played in a controlled manner without sparkling creatively, but have looked more compact defensively and more efficient. Players such as Doan or Uzun can always make the difference with individual moments, even if the attack does not always appear consistently dangerous.
Prediction: Overall, the visitors’ superior individual quality speaks in their favour, but HSV’s home strength and the special nature of the final matchday before the winter break could keep the game open for a long time.