The boss on the game: “There isn’t any extra glamour because our previous performances count for nothing if we don’t beat Freiburg,” responded Florian Kohfeldt regarding the question of how the Green-Whites prepare for an allegedly less glamorous match. Additionally, the Werder head coach praised the Freiburg style of play. “They cover an enormous amount of ground during matches and this can compensate potential lack of quality. They are incredibly well organized and are very flexible tactically.” Kohfeldt praised his opposite coach Christian Streich, whose teams have played exceptionally in recent years. Streich has also worked hard to develop his philosophy. “You certainly don’t know with absolute certainly how Freiburg will play.”
Key player: SC Freiburg are currently suffering from a long list of absentees through injury, including former Werder attacker Nils Petersen. Nicolas Höfler received his fifth yellow card of the season against Mainz, meaning he will miss the match through suspension. Freiburg have to decide who will replace Höfler in central midfielder and this could affect the Breisgauer’s chances of picking up points in Bremen. Mike Frantz has the personal mentality to carry the side and could be an option to replace Höfler. The captain started the defeat in Mainz at centre-back and could return to midfield on Saturday. Germany U21s international Robin Koch is an alternative to Frantz. Christian Streich has to make a decision but this is unlikely to change his plan for his formation and gameplan.
The officials: Bibiana Steinhaus is the referee for the match in the Weser-Stadion and she was last in charge of a Green-Whites match on matchday 17 as Werder fell to a 3-2 defeat away in Leipzig. The 40-year-old police officer will be assisted by Alexander Sather and Thomas Stein on the sidelines. Norbert Grudzinski is the fourth official while Benjamin Brand and Timo Gerach will be in the booth as the Video Assistant Referees (VAR).