The increased physical demands of adding the Champions League to their schedule have impacted Stuttgart's results. Last season, Union Berlin nearly faced relegation from the Bundesliga due to similar issues, but now they’ll have the upper hand in this game.
Following the international break in November, Stuttgart secured straightforward victories against Bochum (2:0) and Regensburg (3:0), but their matches against stronger opponents revealed numerous errors. In Belgrade against Red Star Belgrade (1:5), Stuttgart conceded five unanswered goals after Ermedin Demirović's early strike, resulting in 1.47 xGA. Against Werder Bremen (2:2), they once again missed the injured Jamie Leweling and Deniz Undav, while in defence, the mid-table side made 20 attempts at the vice-champions of Germany's goal.
Earlier this season, Union Berlin were in the top five of the Bundesliga, but a challenging fixture list saw them slip down the table. Against Bayer Leverkusen (1:2), the Berlin side managed only 0.94 xG — Leverkusen were fortunate that their attack effectively converted their chances. When visiting Stuttgart, Union Berlin will deliberately slow the pace, as they excel in playing as a counter-attacking side (with 11 goals conceded, they boast the second-best defensive record in the Bundesliga).
There is no doubt that Stuttgart will once again struggle to showcase their best against a solid defensive unit. Union Berlin will collect vital points, so keep an eye on the Berlin side's handicap.
