Bayern Munich's narrow 1:0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach does not fully reflect the level of dominance shown against a respectable opponent. At home against Hoffenheim, they will find it much easier to secure the desired result.
The win on Borussia's turf marked Bayern's 12th victory of the campaign, maintaining a four-point gap over Bayer Leverkusen in second place. At home, Bayern boast the best goal difference (+18), having won their last five encounters. Despite Jamal Musiala being out due to illness, Bayern were relentless in their creative play, registering 4.48 xG against Borussia Mönchengladbach, including a converted penalty by Harry Kane.
After the New Year break, Hoffenheim's defensive issues remain. At home against Wolfsburg (0:1), they allowed 1.49 xGA, ranking them among the six worst Bundesliga teams in terms of chances conceded (29.40 expected goals against). Hoffenheim have yet to win an away match in seven attempts, scoring a mere four goals—the weakest attack in the league.
In the final round of last season, Hoffenheim convincingly defeated an unmotivated Bayern Munich side (4:2) with Andrej Kramarić netting a second-half hat trick; prior to that, Bayern had won four of the last five meetings. They are determined to reclaim the championship trophy and will capitalise on the struggles of this mid-table side.
