1. FC Union Berlin are far from Freiburg’s favourite opponents. In fact, SC have only emerged victorious from one of the previous nine meetings between the sides, recording four further draws during this period as the capital club repeatedly pose a tough test. “They defend with such passion – the players really give so much for the team. They are also very dangerous in transition,” analysed Julian Schuster regarding the strengths of his side’s latest opponents. “In each of the last two games they have produced solid performances.”

The Berliners initially operated with a back four after Steffen Baumgart took over during the winter break but have found success of late with their familiar 5-3-2 formation, which helped them record a 1-1 draw at home to FC Bayern München and a 2-1 win away in Frankfurt. “A number of Union players are already familiar with this particular system and that’s where their success stems from,” explained Schuster.

Baumgart’s second visit of the season

It is not all too often that the same coach is seen in the same away dugout in two separate matches, in charge of two different teams, all within the space of a single season. However, Steffen Baumgart has already suffered defeat in Freiburg this campaign after being knocked out of the DFB-Pokal with Hamburger SV at the second-round stage back in October 2024.

Matthias Ginter netted the go-ahead goal in that cup clash with a header following a corner, but Baumgart’s new side are less likely to concede via this means. Union actually possess the tightest defence in the division when it comes to guarding against corner kicks, shipping only once via this means all season. “Despite their proficiency at defending set-pieces, we nevertheless back ourselves to create chances and aim to convert these when they come along.”

Vincenzo Grifo is certainly no slouch when it comes to delivering dead balls, however, providing the assist for that Ginter header as well. An appearance on Sunday would mark the 31-year-old’s 300th in competitive fixtures for SC, while he has also been directly involved in six of his side’s last seven goals against Union.

Schuster is raring to go

The sole international break in the second half of the campaign served the Freiburg squad and coaching staff well. “The contrast to the first half of the season has been noticeable, since before there would be a pause every four weeks or so. We have just had eight or nine matches uninterrupted in row, which makes a big difference,” reported Schuster, adding: “We used this time to prepare ourselves for the final stretch.” All eight players who were away on international duty have returned fit and healthy. Merlin Röhl will miss Sunday’s clash through illness, though, as will those suffering from long-term injuries.

The coaching staff are certainly looking forward to what is the first of five remaining home matches this season: “A great opportunity awaits on Sunday following the break from action. We are excited about the next home game and the latest chance to play in front of our fans, who always provide us with such great backing.” The home section is sold-out for the contest, as per usual, while 2,000 travelling fans will make the journey from the German capital.

Photo: SC Freiburg