ST Pauli v RB Leipzig

Bundesliga – Millerntor-Stadion Tuesday 20.30 CET

Team News:

St Pauli have centre back Eric Smith back from suspension, he will slot back in as he is a key man in the backline. Top scoring striker Andreas Hountondji is sidelined possibly for the season. CF Martijn Kaars should be fit and is around same level as the missing man.

RB Leipzig have a lengthy injury list.  Massive losses in offense as three 1^st choice attacking midfielders in Johan Bakayoko, Antonio Nusa and Assan Ouedraogo both miss out. Back up squad men Benjamin Henrichs and Lukas Klostermann are out too.

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Formations:

St Pauli have rotated the formation quite a bit but 3-4-2-1 has been utilised most. They don’t really rotate 1^st eleven much and are quite direct. Like to catch opposition offside with an organised back line. Are a bit shot shy though and lack creativity. Only 16 goals scored all season.

RB Leipzig have almost entirely used 4-3-3 this season. Some key men out here though but do have a decent squad. They will look to attack St Pauli with pace and individual quality.

Statistics:

Referee: Florian Exner (Average cards 4.20 Yellow 0.10 Red per game)

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Match Preview:

Leipzig are chasing Champions League while St Pauli are struggling to avoid relegation. A huge gulf in class between the sides sees Leipzig 23 points ahead of the home side. A few attacking threats out for both sides but the visitors have a lot more depth in the squad.

Betting Preview:

The odds are quite surprising here and RB Leipzig are on the drift slightly, likely due to the negative team news. However as have already pointed out Leipzig do have a much better first eleven with the players available. St Pauli are struggling in midfield and attack with a severe lack of creativity. Add RB Leipzig to any midweek bet.