Darmstadt vs Werder Bremen
Bundesliga
Sunday
1st October 2023
Merck-Stadion am Bollenfalltor
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 6 of the Bundesliga fixture between Darmstadt and Werder Bremen.
Darmstadt vs Werder Bremen: Preview
Darmstadt form analysis
SV Darmstadt began with a 1-4 home loss to Union Berlin, outclassed despite Mehlem briefly equalizing. They suffered another heavy home defeat next, thrashed 1-5 by Leverkusen. Darmstadt did better in an entertaining 3-3 draw at home to Gladbach, with Skarke netting a brace. But defensive issues persisted in a 1-3 loss away at Stuttgart, going ahead through a Zagadou own goal before conceding three times.
Overall, it’s been a difficult start to life back in the Bundesliga as expected for Darmstadt as they struggle defensively. They’ve already conceded 13 goals in just 4 games, regularly ripped apart by quality attacks. Going forward, Darmstadt have showcased sporadic potential with the likes of Skarke and Mehlem looking dangerous.
However, keeping clean sheets is the clear priority if Darmstadt are to avoid relegation this season. The thrilling draw with Gladbach shows Darmstadt can compete in the Bundesliga, but tightening up at the back is an absolute must now.
Werder Bremen form analysis
Werder had a tough start, losing 0-4 at home to Bayern despite competing well for long spells. They followed that up with a narrow 0-1 home loss to Freiburg, undone by a last minute Philipp goal.
However, Werder bounced back impressively by hammering Mainz 4-0 at home, sparked by new signings like Stage and Njinmah. But defensive issues resurfaced in a 2-4 home loss to Heidenheim in the cup. Most recently though, Werder returned to winning ways in the league, beating Cologne 2-1 thanks to goals from Borre and Njinmah.
Overall, it’s been a mixed start under new manager Ole Werner as Werder adapt to life back in the top flight. They’ve showcased their attacking potential, scoring 6 goals in their last 3 league games. But defensively there have been lapses, highlighted in the losses to Bayern and Heidenheim. If Werder is more solid at the back to complement their goal scoring power, they have an excellent chance of avoiding relegation this term. But improving defensive organization and concentration is crucial after conceding 8 goals in their last 3 games.
