Darmstadt (dpa / lhe) – Darmstadt 98 expects a feared opponent for the home game in the 2nd Bundesliga on Sunday (1.30 p.m. / Sky) in Arminia Bielefeld. In the past five duels, the East Westphalians have always left the pitch as winners. “Bielefeld has been relegated to the Bundesliga. Arminia has a very good squad with top individual players,” said Lilien coach Torsten Lieberknecht on Friday. “They picked up four points in two games under the new coach. That’s quite a number.”
The Hessians, who last played 2-2 against Heidenheim after four wins in a row, are still hoping for something countable. “If we – pushed by our fans – put our power on the pitch, it can be a successful day,” said Lieberknecht.
The 49-year-old is undecided about the tactical formation of the defensive line. “We have several options for the back three and see which constellation suits the opponent best,” he said. “But a back four is also conceivable. So I’m spoiled for choice.” Lieberknecht will have to do without striker Oscar Vilhelmsson (capsule injury), suspended captain Fabian Holland, Mathias Honsak and Emir Karic (both in advanced training).
