The Bundesliga season reaches its dramatic conclusion this Saturday as 1. FC Union Berlin welcome FC Augsburg to the iconic Stadion An der Alten Försterei for Match Day 34. With both teams looking to finish the campaign on a high note, this matchup promises plenty of action and intrigue.
Union Berlin currently sit in 12th place with 36 points, coming off an impressive 3-1 victory away at Mainz in their last outing. Marie-Louise Eta's side will be hoping to build on that momentum and treat their passionate home fans to a strong performance to close out the season.
Their opponents, FC Augsburg, have enjoyed a solid campaign and occupy 9th position with 43 points. Manuel Baum's men head into this fixture on the back of a convincing 3-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach, extending their impressive unbeaten run to six matches. The last meeting between these two sides ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for another closely contested affair.
Looking at the recent form guides, there are some fascinating trends to consider. Augsburg have been formidable away from home, currently enjoying a run of three consecutive matches without defeat on the road, including two straight wins. However, they've also conceded in 16 straight away matches, suggesting Union Berlin's attack could find opportunities. The visitors have scored in seven consecutive games overall, showcasing their attacking consistency.
For Union Berlin, home form has been a concern lately, with just one win in their last eight matches at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei. They have, however, found the net in six consecutive home games, so goals should be expected. The home side will be eager to end a four-match winless streak in front of their own fans.
Team news sees Union Berlin likely to field: Carl Klaus, Chris Trimmel, Diogo Leite, Danilho Doekhi, Tom Rothe, Aljoscha Kemlein, Rani Khedira, Oliver Burke, Ilyas Ansah, Livan Burcu, and Andrej Ilic. Augsburg are expected to counter with: Finn Dahmen, Chrislain Matsima, Jeffrey Gouweleeuw, Cédric Zesiger, Marius Wolf, Kristijan Jakic, Fabian Rieder, Dimitrios Giannoulis, Anton Kade, Michael Gregoritsch, and Mert Kömür.
Manuel Baum's record against Union Berlin is notable—he's faced them twice and managed only draws on both occasions. With Augsburg's recent form and Union's home struggles, this could be another tight contest. But in the Bundesliga's final day drama, expect the unexpected as both sides look to end the season on a winning note.