St. Pauli come into this match on the back of a noticeable improvement in results. The team have taken three wins from their last four league games and have moved above the relegation zone.
St. Pauli
However, the underlying statistics remain vulnerable: over the last five matches they have allowed an average of 1.63 xGA and concede around 14 shots per game. Even in wins, the defence regularly leaves space between the lines. Average possession is around 44%, so the hosts often have to defend for long periods without the ball.
Eintracht Frankfurt
Eintracht Frankfurt have also improved after the coaching change. In four matches under Albert Riera the team have collected seven points and improved their attacking numbers. Over this stretch they are generating around 1.72 xG per game and averaging 15–16 shots. Their wing structure in attack is particularly active: they regularly bring the ball into the penalty area through quick switches of play and crosses. With possession at about 52%, they play more positional attacks and create a stable flow of chances.
St. Pauli vs Eintracht Frankfurt Prediction
The playing style of the visitors is uncomfortable for the hosts. The hosts allow many shots after quick switches of play and second balls — these are exactly the phases in which the visitors create a significant share of their chances. In their last five matches, the hosts' defence have allowed opponents a total of over 7.5 expected goals. At the same time, the visitors have scored at least one goal in seven of their last nine league games. Given the difference in attacking volume and the vulnerabilities in the hosts' defence, a bet on the away side's scoring output looks logical.