Werder Bremen vs Eintracht Frankfurt on 16 January
On January 16, 2026, the Bundesliga will witness an intriguing clash between Werder Bremen and Eintracht Frankfurt at the Weserstadion. Both teams are coming into the match with differing objectives: Werder Bremen is locked in a fierce battle to secure their top-flight status, while Eintracht Frankfurt continues their pursuit of a European spot. With so much at stake, this promises to be an enthralling encounter that could have significant ramifications on the table.
Werder Bremen: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Werder Bremen has been showing a mixed bag of results lately, winning two, drawing two, and losing one of their last five Bundesliga matches. Their recent form shows they are tough to break down defensively, yet they still struggle to convert chances into goals. Head coach Ole Werner has utilized a flexible 4-3-3 system that transitions fluidly into a 4-1-4-1 in possession. The team's main strength lies in their counter-attacking game, using the pace of their wingers to exploit the spaces left by opposition defenses.
In terms of key metrics, Werder Bremen averages 48% possession, focusing on efficient, direct attacks rather than prolonged build-up. Their xG (expected goals) per match hovers around 1.2, signaling their reliance on quick, decisive chances. They also have a moderate pressing intensity with 15.8 pressing actions per game, looking to force turnovers in the middle third. Defensively, however, Werder has struggled to control the final third, conceding 1.4 goals per game on average.
Key to Werder Bremen's success will be the performance of their experienced midfielder, Leonardo Bittencourt, who will likely operate as the link between the defense and attack. Alongside him, Mitchell Weiser's runs on the right wing will be crucial, particularly in exposing Frankfurt’s left-side defense. However, Werder will miss the services of top scorer Niclas Füllkrug, who remains sidelined through injury, leaving a significant hole in their attacking setup.
Eintracht Frankfurt: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Eintracht Frankfurt is currently in decent form, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five Bundesliga outings. Their solid results reflect their well-drilled tactical structure under head coach Oliver Glasner. The team predominantly operates in a 3-4-2-1 formation, designed to provide solid defensive coverage while facilitating rapid transitions. Frankfurt relies heavily on their wingbacks to deliver crosses into the box, especially through the dynamic Filip Kostić, and the creative attacking duo of Daichi Kamada and Randal Kolo Muani.
Frankfurt boasts an impressive average of 56% possession, focusing on dominating the ball in midfield and pressing high to recover possession quickly. They are also effective in the final third, with an xG per game of 1.7, showcasing their proficiency in creating quality chances. Their pressing game is intense, averaging 17.2 pressing actions per match, which places heavy pressure on opposition defenses, particularly in transitions. Despite their attacking strength, Frankfurt's defensive record has been a bit shaky, with 1.3 goals conceded per match.
The standout player for Frankfurt in this fixture is undoubtedly Randal Kolo Muani, whose pace and movement provide constant danger for opposition backlines. Kamada's vision and creativity in the final third will also be key to unlocking Werder's defense. Frankfurt will, however, be without the services of defender Martin Hinteregger, which could weaken their defense against set-pieces and aerial duels.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last five meetings between Werder Bremen and Eintracht Frankfurt have been evenly contested, with both teams sharing two wins and a draw each. In their previous encounter earlier this season, Frankfurt emerged victorious 2-1, but the match was closer than the scoreline suggests. Historically, these two teams have shown contrasting styles, with Werder often trying to play on the counter-attack while Frankfurt looks to impose their possession-based game. Psychological factors will be significant in this fixture, with Frankfurt keen to solidify their European hopes, while Werder must fight for every point to avoid relegation.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most intriguing matchups will be the battle between Werder’s right winger Mitchell Weiser and Frankfurt's left-wing back, Evan Ndicka. Weiser’s pace and dribbling ability will be a constant threat, especially given Frankfurt's high defensive line. If Weiser can isolate Ndicka in one-on-one situations, he could create dangerous crosses into the box or cut inside to take a shot at goal.
Another key battle will unfold in the middle of the park, where the battle for control between Werder’s Bittencourt and Frankfurt’s Kamada will decide the tempo of the game. Kamada’s ability to pick out passes and link up with Kolo Muani will be crucial for Frankfurt’s success, while Bittencourt’s tenacity and vision will be essential for Werder to sustain their counter-attacks. Whoever dominates this midfield contest could tilt the game in their favor.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This game will likely see Frankfurt dominating possession, while Werder Bremen will look to absorb pressure and strike on the counter. Frankfurt’s high pressing game will aim to choke Werder’s build-up play, forcing them to go long with possession. The key to the match will be whether Werder can find space in the wide areas to exploit Frankfurt’s defensive weaknesses, especially on the counter. If Frankfurt can neutralize Weiser’s threat and control the midfield with Kamada and Djibril Sow, they should be able to impose their will on the game.
Given the stakes for both teams, expect a tight encounter. Werder will fight for every point, but Frankfurt’s superior quality and attacking depth should see them edge the game. A 2-1 win for Eintracht Frankfurt seems the most probable outcome, with both teams likely scoring, but Frankfurt having the cutting edge in the final third.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer one crucial question: Can Werder Bremen's counter-attacking style overcome Frankfurt's possession-heavy game, or will the visitors impose their superior quality on the match? The outcome could have massive consequences for both teams, with Werder fighting for survival and Frankfurt pushing for Europe. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the Bundesliga.
