Bochum vs Monchengladbach
Bundesliga
Saturday
30th September 2023
Vonovia Ruhrstadion
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 6 of the Bundesliga fixture between Bochum and Monchengladbach.
Bochum vs Monchengladbach: Preview
Bochum form analysis
Die Unabsteigbaren began with a heavy 0-5 home loss to Stuttgart, totally outclassed from start to finish. They did better in a 1-1 home draw against Dortmund, taking the lead before Malen equalized. However, defensive issues persisted in a 2-2 away draw at Augsburg, twice letting a lead slip.
Bochum then earned a credible 1-1 home draw with Frankfurt thanks to Stoger’s penalty canceling out Dina Ebimbe’s opener. Most recently though, they were thrashed 0-7 at home by Bayern, ripped apart by the champions in their heaviest ever Bundesliga defeat.
Overall, it’s been a very difficult start for Bochum as they battle to avoid relegation again. They’ve looked extremely vulnerable defensively, conceding 15 goals already. Scoring hasn’t been a major issue, but their openness at the back has repeatedly cost them.
Avoiding thrashings like the losses to Stuttgart and Bayern is essential for confidence. If Thomas Letsch can make Bochum harder to beat, they have enough attacking threat to pick up results. But vastly improving defensively is an absolute must now.
Monchengladbach form analysis
Gladbach began with a dramatic 4-4 home draw against Augsburg, squandering leads three times in a game where both defenses struggled. Their issues at the back continued in a 0-3 home loss to Leverkusen, comprehensively outplayed.
Gladbach did better in a tight 1-2 home loss to Bayern, taking the lead through Itakura before being edged out. Defensive problems persisted in an entertaining 3-3 draw away at Darmstadt, twice coming from behind. Most recently, Gladbach suffered a narrow 0-1 home loss to RB Leipzig after Werner’s second half winner.
Overall, it’s been a very mixed start for Gladbach under new boss Daniel Farke. They’ve showcased attacking potential, scoring 10 goals already. But defensively they’ve been far too open, conceding 14 times in just 5 games. Finding more solidity and balance will be crucial. If they can tighten up at the back, Gladbach’s array of attackers give them a strong chance of a top half finish. But improving their defensive record is vital after leaking so many goals already this term.
