Augsburg vs Borussia Dortmund: Match preview, team news and predictions

Augsburg and Borussia Dortmund renew hostilities in the Bundesliga this weekend in what promises to be an enthralling match-up between two volatile sides.

The promising fixture is set to take place on December 16, 2023, with kickoff billed for 2:30 PM at the WWK Arena, Augsburg's home ground and it promises to be an intriguing encounter.

Augsburg have shown a mixed bag of performances this season. Under the guidance of coach Jess Thorup, they went on a six-game unbeaten streak before being stopped by Werder Bremen. Despite this setback, they have shown resilience, especially at home, collecting 12 of their 17 points at the WWK Arena. T

heir approach has typically revolved around a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ermedin Demirovic playing a crucial role in linking the midfield and attack. However, they have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last 17 Bundesliga games.

Borussia Dortmund, managed by Edin Terzic, have had a challenging run in the Bundesliga, with only one win in their last six league matches. This form contrasts starkly with their Champions League success, where they topped their group. 

Dortmund's concerns are compounded by the suspension of Mats Hummels and injuries to key players like Youssoufa Moukoko and Julian Ryerson. They are expected to deploy a 4-1-3-2 formation, with a focus on an attacking approach, possibly featuring Donyell Malen and Niclas Füllkrug upfront.

Augsburg: Ermedin Demirovic is a key player for Augsburg, having been directly involved in over half of their goals this campaign.

Dortmund: Marco Reus's experience and consistency make him a player to watch. Niclas Füllkrug, with five goals and four assists, is another crucial figure for Dortmund.

Dortmund has historically had the upper hand in this fixture, with Augsburg conceding more goals against them than any other Bundesliga opponent. However, Augsburg's home form and Dortmund's recent struggles make this match less predictable.

Augsburg will miss Raphael Framberger and Reece Oxford, while Iago remains doubtful. 

Dortmund's list includes Moukoko, Duranville, Nmecha, Ryerson, and the suspended Hummels.

Both teams have shown vulnerabilities in defence, with Dortmund conceding in five of their last six Bundesliga games and Augsburg's long streak without a clean sheet. 

This might lead to a game with several scoring opportunities. Betting tips often suggest over 2.5 goals in such a match. Dortmund, despite their inconsistent form, might have a slight edge due to their superior firepower.

Prediction

A prediction for this match is challenging due to both teams' fluctuating forms. 

However, a closely fought contest is expected, with Dortmund slightly favoured to win. Some predictions suggest a 1-2 victory for Dortmund.

The match time is 3:30pm WAT and for Nigerian viewers, it's best to check local sports channels and Cable TV channels for live coverage of the match.