Christian Streich’s team drew 1-1 with RB Leipzig in the first game at the new Europa-Park Stadion – a match which could have ended in a win with a little bit more luck towards the end – but will now face back-to-back trips north, with this weekend’s Wolfsburg game followed by a cup clash in Osnabrück.

The team will be in good spirits, thanks to being unbeaten after eight games in the league, occupying fourth place and boasting the best defensive record. Streich is also pleased. “I think it’s fantastic that we haven’t lost yet, especially as it hasn’t been down to luck. Putting it modestly, we’ve shown a good level of performance. The players have done well.”

Resting on the laurels is out of the question for the 56-year-old, who said the team doesn’t want to “chat about it, but rather go out and perform again” ahead of the game against Wolfsburg. The second half against RB Leipzig can be a starting point. “We want to continue where we left off against Leipzig. We’re highly motivated and full of motivation,” said Streich.

Saturday’s opponents were in action in the UEFA Champions League during the week. A 3-1 loss to RB Salzburg on Wednesday extended a winless run that began in the middle of September. “Wolfsburg definitely have different standards for themselves, even if they are still doing well in the table,” said Streich, who would rather focus on his own team. “We’re looking at ourselves and need to go into the game with 100% commitment and know that Wolfsburg can flip the switch at any time.”

The team news is a similar picture to last time out. Roland Sallai is a doubt with a knock on his knee. Lukas Küber has rejoined team training after an infection – whether the right back will be available for Wolfsburg is yet to be seen. Two players who will definitely miss out are Jonathan Schmid and Kimberly Ezekwem who are still in regenerative training.