First Team

Showdown for the Relegation Play-off Spot

The situation ahead of Bundesliga Matchday 34.

For the first time in Bundesliga history, the bottom three teams go into Matchday 34 level on points. The Wolves, Heidenheim and St. Pauli will battle it out for the relegation play-off spot on Saturday from 15:30 CEST. While the Boys in Brown and VfL face off directly, Heidenheim host 1. FSV Mainz 05.

All three sides are on 26 points, with the Green-and-Whites holding the best position thanks to a goal difference that is three goals better. Here’s an overview of the Matchday 34 scenarios.

Scenario 1: Victory against St. Pauli

An away win at FC St. Pauli would secure the relegation play-off spot for VfL, provided 1. FC Heidenheim either lose, draw or only win narrowly at the same time. Only if Heidenheim record a big victory and overturn their goal difference deficit of three goals could the Wolves still slip to 17th despite winning themselves.

If Wolfsburg and Heidenheim finish Matchday 34 with the same number of points, the same goal difference and the same number of goals scored, VfL would remain in 16th place because the Wolves hold the head-to-head advantage over FCH (3-1 and 1-1).

Scenario 2: Draw against St. Pauli

A draw at the Millerntor would be enough to stay ahead of FC St. Pauli. However, Heidenheim would then have to avoid beating Mainz. If FCH take all three points, both VfL and St. Pauli would be relegated automatically.

Scenario 3: Defeat against St. Pauli

If VfL lose the direct clash on the final matchday, relegation to Bundesliga 2 would be confirmed.