Eintracht Frankfurt will host VfL Bochum in Matchday 26 of the Bundesliga season at Deutsche Bank Park on Friday. Frankfurt has failed to win any of their last six matches in all competitions and is looking to return to winning ways against relegation-threatened Bochum.
Frankfurt’s dip in form
Frankfurt’s top-four position has been affected by a dip in form, coinciding with Randal Kolo Muani scoring only once in the last four games. The 23-year-old forward is expected to play a crucial role for Frankfurt, who are looking to close the gap on the Champions League qualification positions by winning the match.
Kolo Muani’s international form
Kolo Muani started both of France’s 2024 European Championship qualifiers during the international break, showing his growing reputation on the world stage. He has contributed a league-leading 21 Bundesliga goals so far this season (11 of his own, plus 10 assists) and will be aiming to continue his impressive form against Bochum.
Bochum’s recent performances
Bochum is currently 14th in the table with a four-point cushion over relegation. They responded in style after losing their six-pointer against Schalke on Matchday 23, winning back-to-back games against Cologne and Leipzig. However, Bochum has a feast or famine record on the road this season, winning two and losing 11 without any draws yet.
Head-to-head record
Frankfurt has won five consecutive home meetings with Bochum in all competitions. However, Bochum has recorded more Bundesliga wins over Frankfurt than any team they’ve faced (25), including two from three encounters since returning to the top flight in 2021.
Confirmed lineups
Frankfurt will be without defender Evan Ndicka, who is suspended for the match. Filip Kostic and Ragnar Ache are unlikely to return until late April due to injuries. Bochum will travel without Maxim Leitsch due to suspension, while Cristian Gamboa is approaching his return from a serious knee injury but will likely be eased into first-team action from the substitutes’ bench.
Prediction
The article predicts a 2-1 victory for Frankfurt, but Bochum is expected to give them a stiff test. Despite Bochum’s recent resurgence, Frankfurt’s home advantage and Kolo Muani’s form could see them returning to winning ways in the Bundesliga.
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