SC are finally back at home in the Bundesliga. Tickets are sold out and after the win in Hoffenheim, captain Christian Günter and Co. are going into the second game with confidence. “Having a good start immediately brings a sense of ease to the group and the general mood is good.” said Christian Streich before the game at the weekend.

The upcoming opponents, Bremen, did not have such a good start to the season. Werder lost their opening game of the 60th Bundesliga season 4-0 to FC Bayern and went out in the opening round of the DFB-Pokal. However, the Green-Whites are optimistic about their first away game: “We know that it will be difficult in Freiburg because they have a very flexible squad,” emphasised Marvin Ducksch. “But, if we play our best football, we will have an even game.”

Beautiful football isn’t important

According to Streich, Bremen's recent form cannot be judged based on their duel with Bayern: “Bremen did very well against Bayern, they had good spells where Marvin Ducksch linked up with Niclas Füllkrug. There were really good moments in the game for Bremen where they could have equalised.”

Defending is the key word for Streich in view of the Bremen game. “When we put pressure on them, they’ll play long balls to Füllkrug, who is good in the air. When we build up attacks more slowly, they’ll close up the spaces and work hard off the ball. They do that well. I expect a very hostile and aggressive team, who don’t win games by playing beautiful football, but by the way in which they defend. They’re a difficult team to play against.”

The coaching team has an idea of what SC must do to overcome Werder's strong defence: “It’s a question of how sharp we are in attack and how hungry we are in duels.” Since Monday, Maximilian Philipp is now an option for Freiburg up top – at least off the bench on Saturday.

The new addition, who was signed at the start of the week, will be in the squad to face Bremen: “He has been training with us since Tuesday and has immediately clicked with the rest of the team. I know Milli inside out; I’ve coached him for so long,” said Streich. “It’s likely that he’ll come on as a substitute. We’re happy that he has joined the club – it has increased the competition in the squad.” Junior Adamu is also looking good in training, but he will not be in the squad for the game on Saturday.

Photo: Achim Keller