Holstein Kiel – Werder Bremen
Excitement in the Holstein Stadium: While Holstein Kiel are fighting desperately for relegation, Werder Bremen also have their backs to the wall after seven defeats in eleven second-half matches. The Kielers have only collected 17 points and are already two points behind Heidenheim with a goal difference of -26. They recently suffered a 3-1 defeat at the home of their rivals, which has further increased the pressure. On the other hand, Werder have become the “shooting gallery of the league” this calendar year, conceding 28 goals, but can hope for the return of captain Marco Friedl. In previous direct encounters, there were always at least three goals, which also points to an offensive spectacle this time.
Holstein Kiel – Werder Bremen information
- Venue: Holstein Stadium, Kiel
- Date and Time: 29.03.2025, 3:30 pm
- Competition: Bundesliga
Holstein Kiel Form & Record Check
The storks are going through a difficult phase: after a brief glimmer of hope with a 1-0 win at Union Berlin, they drew 2-2 against Stuttgart and then suffered a bitter 3-1 defeat at Heidenheim. Their defensive deficiencies are particularly serious, especially in the early stages. In four of the last five games, the team under coach Marcel Rapp conceded a goal in the first half and then consistently played catch-up. Although Kiel repeatedly shows spirit after the break, it has not been enough to turn the game around so far. At least the team is regularly scoring goals itself, which could help against Werder in an open game.
Coach Marcel Rapp is likely to go with the 3-5-2 system again. Weiner is expected to keep goal, with Komenda, Becker and Zec in the back three. An injury to Colin Kleine-Bekel (market value 2.5 million euros) further weakens Kiel’s defense. Rosenboom and Knudsen could play on the flanks, while Remberg, Gigović and Porath occupy the center. Patrick Erras is out with a concussion, leaving fewer options in the defensive midfield. The duo Skrzybski and Machino should start in attack.
Werder Bremen Form & record check
The alarm bells are also ringing loudly at Werder Bremen. After four defeats in their last five games, including a 4-2 loss to Gladbach and a 5-0 thrashing in Freiburg, the team is doubting its own defense. In 80% of their most recent encounters, the team has conceded a goal in the first half. The advance to 12th place in the table with 33 points somewhat belies the deep-seated uncertainty. Although Werder celebrated a surprise 2-0 win at Bayer Leverkusen in March, this bright spot was quickly overshadowed by the ongoing problems. They also lost 2-1 to second-division side Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB Cup, while the Werder women at least made positive headlines recently.
Werder Bremen are also expected to field a 3-5-2 formation. In the back three, Jung, Pieper and Stark are the most likely starters. Stage and Lynen will be the central midfielders, with Schmid as the creative mind behind them. Kaboré and Agu could play on the flanks, while Silva and Burke will start in attack. It remains to be seen whether Ducksch, who has been heavily used recently, will be allowed to play from the start. Likewise, the return of Weiser or Bittencourt as jokers is conceivable. However, with Veljkovic and Nankishi, two more players are missing due to injury.
Holstein Kiel – Werder Bremen head-to-head & statistics
Historically, Holstein Kiel have even managed to beat Werder Bremen twice in the 2nd Bundesliga, while Bremen narrowly won the last direct duel 2-1. The encounters are always strikingly high-scoring, with at least three goals being scored in all previous matches. In view of the defensive weaknesses of both teams, the upcoming duel could also be an open exchange of blows.
