Bundesliga Round 6 Preview: Dortmund Hopes for Haller's Revival, Bayern Munich's Defensive Concerns

The sixth round of the Bundesliga is set to continue in the early hours of September 30, with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich both facing significant challenges. Dortmund has been struggling with low shooting efficiency this season, and last season’s top scorer Sébastien Haller has yet to find his scoring boots, leaving the team reliant on his return to form. Bayern Munich, while boasting a newfound strength in their forward line, has persistent issues with defensive lapses, particularly involving Kim Min-jae’s perplexing defensive habits. These are pressing issues that manager Thomas Tuchel needs to address promptly.

Hoffenheim vs. Borussia Dortmund - When Will Haller Rediscover His Form?

When Pellegrino Matarazzo took over Hoffenheim in February, the team was level on points with those in the relegation zone, only staying out of the danger area thanks to a better goal difference. Under Matarazzo’s guidance, Hoffenheim gradually improved their performances, ultimately finishing three points clear of the relegation playoff zone. Hoffenheim has been a mid-table mainstay for years, and merely avoiding relegation did not highlight Matarazzo’s capabilities. This season, however, is a different story.

Apart from a loss in the first round to Freiburg, Hoffenheim has beaten every opponent they’ve faced, currently sitting level on points with Champions League contenders, only fifth due to goal difference. Matarazzo’s Hoffenheim has scored in 15 of the 16 matches he’s overseen. In their last game, they achieved their first clean sheet of the season against a fatigued Union Berlin, securing a 2-0 lead by halftime and holding on despite pressure in the second half. While luck played a part in their clean sheet, it’s often said that luck is a part of skill.

Many believe that Dortmund hasn’t garnered enough points so far, but they remain unbeaten and are only two points off the top, which isn’t a bad start. Their victory over Wolfsburg, despite a tough Champions League clash, indicates a more stable performance this season. However, Dortmund has areas to improve, particularly their shooting efficiency. In their last two matches, they created 32 shooting opportunities but managed only five on target. They desperately need last season’s top scorer, Haller, to regain his form.

Hoffenheim hasn’t beaten Dortmund in three years, losing all four recent encounters by a single goal. Despite this, Hoffenheim’s current form suggests they could secure a 2-2 draw this time.

RB Leipzig vs. Bayern Munich - Can Kim Min-jae Fix His Defensive Flaws?

RB Leipzig, known for their high-energy style, has balanced their passion with pragmatism this season. Following a 2-3 loss to a formidable Bayer Leverkusen in the opening round, Leipzig has secured six consecutive victories across all competitions. Big wins, like their 5-1 thrashing of Stuttgart, showcase their offensive prowess, but their real improvement is in defense, achieving three consecutive clean sheets in the league.

New signings such as Loïs Openda and Xavi Simons have been pivotal, both leading the team's scoring charts, while striker Benjamin Sesko has scored five goals in seven appearances. Defensively, new arrival Castello Lukeba has quickly adapted, and Mohamed Simakan has visibly improved. Leipzig’s transfer market spending of 150 million euros suggests they are building a formidable squad that will demand high resale values in the future.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, saw Harry Kane net his first Bundesliga hat-trick last round, a feat likely to be repeated given Bayern’s overall strength. However, Bayern’s defensive frailties, especially against stronger teams, have been glaring. Their backline frequently loses track of opponents, and Kim Min-jae’s tendency to overextend his long legs in defensive situations often leaves gaps for opponents to exploit. This defensive habit must be rectified.

Historically, Leipzig and Bayern have each won four of their last ten encounters. Leipzig has won the last two meetings, and their current form suggests they could win 3-2 at home.

Dortmund’s Struggles with Efficiency

Dortmund’s inability to convert opportunities into goals has been a significant issue this season. Despite generating numerous chances, their low shooting efficiency has hampered their progress. The team relies heavily on Haller, who has yet to find his scoring touch this season. Other attacking players have also underperformed, leaving Dortmund in a precarious position.

Hoffenheim, under Matarazzo, has shown remarkable improvement. They’ve transformed from relegation candidates to potential European contenders. Matarazzo’s tactical acumen and the team’s offensive prowess have been crucial. Their ability to score consistently while tightening their defense has been impressive. The match against Dortmund will test their resilience and tactical discipline.

Bayern’s Defensive Dilemmas

While Bayern’s attack has been bolstered by the arrival of Kane, their defense remains a concern. The team has frequently conceded goals due to lapses in concentration and poor defensive coordination. Kim Min-jae’s defensive style, characterized by overextending his legs, often leaves gaps that opponents can exploit. Tuchel must address these issues to ensure Bayern’s solidity at the back.

Leipzig’s impressive form, especially in defense, makes them formidable opponents. Their balanced approach, combining aggressive attacking play with solid defense, has been effective. New signings have seamlessly integrated, enhancing both their offensive and defensive capabilities. Leipzig’s ability to maintain clean sheets while scoring freely poses a significant threat to Bayern.

The Key Players and Tactical Battles

For Dortmund, Haller’s form is crucial. His ability to lead the line and convert chances will determine Dortmund’s success. The midfield, led by Julian Brandt and Marco Reus, must support the attack effectively. Defensively, Mats Hummels and Niklas Süle must ensure stability at the back.

Hoffenheim will rely on their attacking duo of Andrej Kramaric and Wout Weghorst. Their ability to exploit Dortmund’s defensive weaknesses will be key. The midfield battle, involving Diadie Samassékou and Dennis Geiger, will be crucial in controlling the game’s tempo.

Bayern’s Kane will be the focal point in attack, supported by Leroy Sané and Serge Gnabry. The midfield, orchestrated by Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, must dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. Defensively, Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano must improve their coordination to prevent Leipzig’s dynamic attack from finding space.

Leipzig’s Openda and Simons will be their primary threats, supported by Dani Olmo’s creativity in midfield. Defensively, Lukeba and Simakan must maintain their solid form to counter Bayern’s potent attack.

As Bundesliga Round 6 approaches, both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich face significant challenges. Dortmund must improve their shooting efficiency and rely on Haller to find his form. Bayern, while strong in attack, must address their defensive lapses to secure a victory against an in-form Leipzig side. The outcomes of these matches will have a significant impact on the standings and set the tone for the remainder of the season.