FIRST TEAM
05/06/2010

Baden-Württemberg-Derby to end the season

On Saturday (08.05) at 15:30, on the final day of the season – Baden meets Schwaben as 1899 Hoffenheim take on VfB Stuttgart. Although this derby may not be as explosive as its counterpart, Karlsruhe versus Stuttgart, there is still a lot on the line for both teams.

For Hoffenheim the season ends on a somewhat placid note, whereas Stuttgart are hoping to snatch a place in Europe. Head coach Ralf Rangnick: "We hope to give the supporters a thrilling game, instead of just rolling over against VfB, and try and take the three points. We know, however, that it isn't that simple as Stuttgart have a lot of self-confidence in the return league matches." The recent exploits of his charges have convinced Rangnick that his team is capable of winning against a strong Stuttgart team. "If we demonstrate the same qualities as last week then we can overcome VfB Stuttgart."

Hildebrand before his departure

At the end of a long Bundesliga season it is common to see players and clubs moving in different directions, for instance, 1899 Hoffenheim and goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand. After one and half years at the club Hildebrand will be giving his blue and white kit back and leaving Kraichgau - the 31 year olds destination is still unknown. Along with Hildebrand, Team Physio Dr. Pieter Beks and Sport Psychologist Dr. Hans-Dieter Hermann will also be leaving Hoffenheim at the end of the season. Before the whistle blows there will be an official send off for the people leaving the Rhein-Neckar-Arena. For the last home game of the season Rangnick will be missing Matthias Jaissle and Demba Ba as well as Andreas Ibertsberger, captain Per Nilsson, Timo Hildebrand and Franco Zuculini.

Europa League target

For the guests from Schwaben, who will be missing Timo Gebhart due to suspension, their focus is purely on securing European football next season. Stuttgart have to win against Hoffenheim to stand any chance of making it into Europe. If they are seeking help from their neighbours though, they have underestimated their opponents. 1899 defender Andreas Beck believes his old club can do it: "I reckon that VfB will still make it into Europe no matter what happens at the party on Saturday."

 

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