Germany : 3. Liga - Borussia Dortmund II vs Stuttgart II

Survival Showdown in 3. Liga ⚔️ Kickoff: Friday, Matchday 37

Stadium: Stadion Rote Erde

 

With just two matchdays remaining in Germany’s 3. Liga, the relegation battle is boiling over. Three teams sit on 43 points—Waldhof Mannheim, Borussia Dortmund II, and VfB Stuttgart II—separated only by goal difference. One of them will drop to the Regionalliga, and this clash between BVB II and VfB II is absolutely pivotal.

 

The Situation 🔥

BVB II, having lost their last three matches (1-2 Aue, 0-4 vs Hannover II, 2-4 at Wehen), are in disastrous form, conceding goals at an alarming rate. In response, they’ve sacked their coach and appointed Jan-Torge Tullberg—nicknamed the “Danish Dynamite”—who is known for his energy and motivational edge. Still, BVB II are leaking confidence and goals.

 

VfB Stuttgart II come into this fixture slightly better off. They grabbed a vital 2-1 win over Aachen last time out to draw level on points with BVB. However, their -11 goal difference is the worst among the three clubs, so avoiding defeat here is critical.

 

The Stakes 📉

Neither side can afford to lose. BVB II face a brutal final game away to Saarbrücken—still chasing a playoff spot—while VfB will close at home to RW Essen, who have nothing left to play for. VfB have also notoriously dropped 24 points from winning positions this season, suggesting they may play it safe here.

 

Tactics & Mentality 🎯

Expect a tense, conservative affair. Both sides know a draw isn’t ideal—but a loss could be fatal. The risk-aversion will likely win out, especially with VfB preferring not to expose their fragile defense and BVB short on confidence despite the new coach bounce.

 

PREDICTION: DRAW (X) 🤝