Borussia Dortmund vs VfL Bochum live preview Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund:
Following a challenging pre-Christmas period with just one win in eight league matches, Borussia Dortmund has shown a strong resurgence post-winter break, securing back-to-back victories with clean sheets against SV Darmstadt 98 and FC Koln. Donyell Malen, Niclas Fullkrug, and Youssoufa Moukoko played pivotal roles in Dortmund's recent success, lifting them to a potential top-four position, especially with rivals Stuttgart and RB Leipzig both facing January setbacks.
VfL Bochum:
VfL Bochum, despite being seen as underdogs, is holding their ground in the Bundesliga and aims to secure survival for the third consecutive season. Bochum's recent victory over Stuttgart, marked by Matus Bero's second-half strike, showcased their resilience at home, having suffered only one defeat on their home turf this season. Despite their positive home form, Bochum faces a significant challenge on the road, with only one win in their last 13 away trips, making their clash with Dortmund a crucial test away from home.
Analysis:
Dortmund faces defensive challenges with Ramy Bensebaini and Sebastien Haller on Africa Cup of Nations duty. Key players like Karem Adeyemi, Felix Nmecha, Julian Ryerson, and Emre Can are doubtful due to injuries. Mats Hummels and Niklas Sule's availability is uncertain, potentially leading to 19-year-old Hendry Blank filling in. Bochum, missing Takuma Asano at the Asia Cup and with Bernardo suspended, might see Maximilian Wittek step in at left-back. Injuries to Esser, Schlotterbeck, Soares, and Tolba leave doubts, but Kevin Stoger is expected to return to the midfield after overcoming illness.
Borussia Dortmund vs VfL Bochum stream and TV listing
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