Augsburg and Freiburg meet with the Bundesliga’s top places in view

A chance to close the gap

Their January meeting ended 2-2, and this Bundesliga rematch carries significance for both sides’ ambitions near the top of the table. Third-placed SC Freiburg have 13 points from seven games, while FC Augsburg sit ninth on nine. A home win would bring Augsburg within a point of Freiburg; the visitors, meanwhile, can strengthen their position among the leading sides.

The table is still tightly packed at this early stage, but the four-point gap gives the fixture a clear qualification-race edge. Freiburg have the better start on points and goal difference, while Augsburg will look to turn home advantage into a meaningful push up the standings.

Freiburg arrive in better form

Augsburg’s last five have brought 10 goals, but also 12 conceded, and their recent league sequence has been uneven. They have yet to lose at home in the league, drawing three of four matches there, though they have won only once.

Freiburg have scored 11 times across their last five and conceded eight. Their season record is stronger, with four wins from seven, although their form line also includes two defeats. Away from home they have won once in three outings, scoring four and conceding four.

Recent meetings offer goals

The sides’ latest encounter, in January, finished 2-2 in Augsburg. Freiburg’s previous home meeting with Augsburg ended in a 1-3 defeat, while the five most recent head-to-heads include two draws and three wins for Augsburg. Their recent history suggests this is unlikely to be a one-sided contest.

Augsburg absences, Freiburg doubts

Augsburg will be without J. Bah, suspended after a red card, as well as N. Banks, C. Brackelmann and S. Mounie, all listed as missing through injury or concussion.

Freiburg have four players listed as questionable: J. Makengo and D. Scherhant with muscle and foot injuries respectively, P. Treu with an ankle issue, and B. Yilmaz because of match fitness.

Late goals and attacking threat

Augsburg have scored six of their 17 league goals in the final 15 minutes, making their late pressure one to watch. Freiburg have been more prolific overall, with 16 goals, and their 11 in the last five underline the threat they bring. Both sides have scored in each of their last five matches.

Our prediction

PreviaXI’s model expects an even contest, with the home side’s advantage and Augsburg’s attacking output balancing Freiburg’s stronger league position and recent form. A narrow home victory is the pick in a match where both teams have shown they can find the net.

FC Augsburg 2-1 SC Freiburg