Brann's pressure and Viking's quick releases create two very different ways into the box. Their earlier meeting showed how much set pieces can shape this matchup, while Brann's latest home games showed that shot volume and finishing can diverge. Dortmund move the ball forward quickly after recoveries, and Bremen have found both direct runs and patient second-half combinations. In that game, the space around the wide defenders should be central to the flow.
Brann can push wide around Holm and keep returning to Viking's box; they produced 17 box shots while chasing Lillestrøm. Viking have a direct reply through Tripić, who supplied damaging dead balls against Brann and was released after a midfield recovery against Stuttgart. Viking also allowed Lillestrøm 15 shots in a win, so Brann's pressure has a clear place to land.
Brann have used replacement midfield and wide roles, and Viking list Bjørshol out of their aerial group. I expect Brann to press early, with Viking attacking the space and dead-ball chances created when Brann advance. Brann have already answered Viking goals through Holm's combinations, while Viking have shown they can create without dominating possession. I am backing a goal from each of Brann and Viking.
Dortmund's recoveries can put Guirassy and the inside runners behind Bremen's advancing wide players. Bremen have conceded repeated attempts, but their Chuki-to-Dinkci and Chuki-to-Grüll connections have also created chances at the other end. Füllkrug gives Bremen a box target and a set-piece route, while Dortmund can add a decisive second-line pass as they did against Stuttgart.
Ryerson and Svensson are doubtful for Dortmund, and Schlotterbeck's ankle has left the left side of their defence unsettled. I expect Dortmund to test Bremen's central screen early, with Bremen looking for a direct exit and further supply as the game opens up. Dortmund have the entries to score, and Bremen have shown more than one route to a finish. I am backing a goal from each of Dortmund and Bremen.
