Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the DFB-Pokal match.
Despite a disappointing start in the Champions League with three consecutive defeats, RB Leipzig are showing confidence on the domestic front. For instance, ahead of their DFB-Pokal clash with St. Pauli, the team saw off top-four Bundesliga side Freiburg (3:1) and will play solely for the win against the newly promoted top-flight visitors.
RB Leipzig
Even at home against a strong Liverpool side (0:1), Leipzig were just shy of a draw—Loïs Openda's late goal was disallowed after a VAR check, though the hosts proved threatening with chances (0.76 xG and six shots on target). Against Freiburg, their finishing did not falter: over 90 minutes, Leipzig created 1.90 xG, netting three goals from five shots on target after the break. Despite injuries sidelining David Raum, Xaver Schlager, and Xavi Simons, Leipzig have enough quality to maintain constant pressure on the opposition's goal.
St. Pauli
After eliminating Hallescher FC (3:2 after penalty) in the previous DFB-Pokal round, St. Pauli have managed just one win in eight league matches. Post-break, the Hamburg side fell to Borussia Dortmund (1:2) and drew with Wolfsburg (0:0), conceding an xGA of 4.46 over 180 minutes. Injuries to players such as Sören Ahlers, Connor Metcalfe, Elias Saad, and Ben Voll leave the coaching staff with limited rotation options.
RB Leipzig vs St. Pauli Prediction
In September, St. Pauli held Leipzig to a goalless draw on their own turf, fully ceding the initiative (38-62% possession). At home, RB Leipzig will secure their victory—with Marco Rose at the helm, they look impressive in cup competitions.
