7M - Preview: Werder Bremen vs Hoffenheim – Bundesliga Matchweek 19

Werder Bremen will host TSG Hoffenheim at the Weserstadion in their Matchweek 19 fixture of the 2025-26 Bundesliga season. The Kraichgauers head into this clash with momentum on their side, having won their most recent encounter between the two sides.

Bremen are struggling for form after a narrow 0-1 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen in their last league outing. Despite periods of control, they were unable to convert chances and dropped all three points. That result leaves them in 15th place in the table, deepening concerns over their survival prospects as they face a confident Hoffenheim side.

In contrast, Hoffenheim arrive in Bremen on the back of a strong run—winning three of their last three matches, including a convincing victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Their attacking rhythm and defensive solidity make them formidable opponents, even on the road.

Key Players to Watch

Jens Stage remains Bremen's most consistent creative force this season. With seven goal contributions (goals and assists) from 15 Bundesliga appearances, the Danish midfielder will be crucial if the hosts are to break their five-match winless streak. Though he was kept quiet against Leverkusen, Stage is expected to lead Bremen's push for vital points.

For Hoffenheim, veteran striker Andrej Kramaric continues to deliver. The 34-year-old has netted six goals and added three assists in 17 league games this campaign. His movement and clinical finishing pose a constant threat, and he'll look to exploit Bremen's shaky backline.

Team News & Absences

Werder Bremen will be without eight players due to injury: Leonardo Bittencourt, Amos Pieper, Victor Boniface, Salim Musah, Mitchell Weiser, Niklas Stark, Maximilian Wober, and Felix Agu—all ruled out.

Hoffenheim also face absences, with Cole Campbell, Adam Hlozek, Koki Machida, and Tim Lemperle sidelined due to fitness issues.

Head-to-Head Record

The two clubs have met 34 times in Bundesliga history:

Werder Bremen wins: 14
Hoffenheim wins: 10
Draws: 10
Notably, none of their last five meetings have ended in a draw, underscoring the competitive nature of this fixture.

Predicted Lineups

Werder Bremen (3-5-2):

Backhaus; Malatini, Fiedl, Coulibaly; Sugawara, Schmid, Lynen, Stage, Schmidt; Njinmah, Grüll

TSG Hoffenheim (3-4-2-1):

Baumann; Kabak, Hajdari, Bernardo; Coufal, Avdullahu, Burger, Prass; Kramaric, Asllani; Moerstedt

Match Prediction

With Bremen winless in their last five matches and missing starting defenders, Hoffenheim are well-positioned to capitalize. The visitors' recent form, combined with Kramaric's sharpness and Bremen's defensive vulnerabilities, points to an away victory.

Prediction: Werder Bremen 1–3 TSG Hoffenheim