The thrilling debut of Christian Ilzer as the head coach of TSG 1899 Hoffenheim led the team to an emotional victory over RB Leipzig (4:3) in front of their home fans. As they visit Braga, Hoffenheim are unlikely to abandon their chosen aggressive style—in Portugal, both sides are expected to employ a high defensive line, which may increase the number of errors.
Following their win against Maccabi Tel Aviv (2:1) in the first round of the group stage, Braga managed to gather only one point in matches against Olympiacos (0:3), Bodø/Glimt (1:2), and Elfsborg (1:1). In Sweden, they controlled the game (1.18 xG, 63% possession, and 11 shots) but fell short due to the inexperience of the squad. It should be noted that their key defensive midfielder, Rodrigo Zalazar, will miss the upcoming match, creating a vulnerability in a critical area.
Hoffenheim also face several absences due to injuries, with Stanley Nsoki, Grischa Prömel, Ozan Kabak, Florian Grillitsch, and Marius Bülter sidelined. On the upside, against RB Leipzig, Christian Ilzer entrusted Adam Hlozek and Tom Bischof, who are eager for more playing time under the new manager—they combined for a total of 2+1 contributions. In the last round against Olympique Lyonnais (2:2), the team, with an experimental lineup, managed to secure a draw as Umut Tohumcu scored in the 96th minute.
In the four rounds of the Europa League, Braga have seen the total over 2.5 in three matches. TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, even with Christian Ilzer at the helm, remain one of the most entertaining sides in the Bundesliga, so this head-to-head is likely to be filled with goals.
