VfL Wolfsburg were able to consolidate second place in the Google Pixel Women’s Bundesliga table – and keep third-placed TSG Hoffenheim at arm’s length – by beating Bayer 04 Leverkusen 5-1 before the international break. On Matchday 8, the She-Wolves have the chance to pull further away from the Sinsheim outfit, who face the Green-and-Whites at the AOK Arena at 16:00 CET on Saturday 1 November.
At Friday’s pre-match press conference, head coach Stephan Lerch spoke about…
…personnel: “Camilla Küver suffered a minor muscle injury against France during the international break. Caitlin Dijkstra has been having stomach problems, while Lineth Beerensteyn tweaked her Achilles tendon. We’ll have to wait and see how they all get on. Goalkeeper Nelly Smolarczyk also returned from the youth team with a minor knock. Other than that, everyone’s available.”
…possible alternatives in central defence: “Guru Bergsvand has been back on the pitch recently and is firmly on the right track after her injury. She was given playing time with the national team, which is good for her rhythm. Janina Minge has also been playing in central defence again, so we have options – even though Joelle Wedemeyer is still suspended. We certainly have one or two plans up our sleeve.”
…facing former club Hoffenheim: “It’s special because I’ll be seeing a lot of familiar faces. I’m obviously really looking forward to that, and having a quick chat with the players and staff.”
…Hoffenheim and the tasks ahead: “We have a few really tough weeks coming up, starting with Hoffenheim, which is a really big challenge. TSG are doing well in third place. I know a lot of the players, so I’m not surprised that Hoffenheim keep making headlines and getting good results. They have quality in every position, so we’re obviously taking this game seriously and will try to find our rhythm again from the get-go.”
