Wolfsburg - Karlsruhe SC match preview

On the heels of Wolfsburg's 7-0 laugher against third division side FC Oberneuland in the DFB Cup Felix Magath leads Wolfsburg to face Karlsruhe at the Wildparkstadion on Sunday.

It has been a difficult start to the campaign for Edmund Becker's club as they have lost their last three matches after an opening week triumph over VfL Bochum. They have shown only modest attacking flourish and seem to be lacking of confidence, concerned more about being scored upon than attacking. All too often they seem to be on their heels with the attacking primarily in the hands of Antônio da Silva, Aussie international Joshua Kennedy and Sebastian Freis. Josh Kennedy is a very capable striker, who can change a match but they have shown little ability to regularly get him the ball in opportune situations. Andrea Barzagli and Cristian Zaccardo, if he is ever used properly, will need to keep a careful watch on this group. Should Karlsruhe score and take the lead they will look to pad-lock this match down.

Wolfsburg approach is a straight forward attacking back. KSC appears susceptible in defensively, particularly in crossing and flanking attacks. They will sit back in-fear of the counter or long clearing passes and will also be patient. Zvjezdan Misimović will have space to work in the match and must use it wisely given the home clubs defensive mindset. Mahir Sağlık, Grafite and Bosnia and Herzegovina international Edin Džeko, who is looks on the verge to breaking-out into stardom should push forward with constant movement against the KSC back-line of Tim Sebastian, Christian Eichner, Stefano Celozzi and Maik Franz.