GiveMeSport
·14 October 2021
GiveMeSport
·14 October 2021
Ahead of Arsenal’s second UEFA Women’s Champions League group-stage match, GiveMeSport Women previews the visiting Hoffenheim.
Jonas Eidevall’s side are looking for a first win of their European campaign, following a humbling 4-1 defeat to defending champions Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s opponents, Hoffenheim, travel to North London after a winning start in game week one.
Following their inception in 2007, Hoffenheim rushed through the divisions and into the top-flight of German football.
As of now, the club plays their home matches at the 6000 plus capacity Dietmar-Hopp-Stadion, which they share with Hoffenheim men’s reserve team.
Last year, Hoffenheim finished third behind Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg – their equal highest position in the Frauen-Bundesliga. In doing so they qualified for the Champions League qualifiers and then the group stage.
In Europe, Tine De Caigny scored a brace as Hoffenheim thumped Danish side Koge in game week one. The German side sit top of Group C, but are well aware of sterner tests to come – with Arsenal and Barcelona also in their group.
Last weekend, Hoffenheim suffered their first defeat of the league season. A 3-1 defeat to defending champions Bayern Munich marked the end of an impressive 13 game unbeaten run.
They currently sit fifth in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
Tine De Caigny signed from Anderlecht before the 2021/22 season and has hit the ground running.
The Belgian striker’s 11 goals in Champions League qualifying were followed by a brace against Koge in their tournament opener.
Although unlikely, expect De Caigny to be involved if Hoffenheim are to spring a surprise in North London.
Like all of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, Arsenal vs Hoffenheim is live on DAZN’s Youtube channel.
Kick off is at 8pm, with coverage starting from 7.45pm.
Arsenal’s Women’s Super League form has been scintillating.
Five wins from five – including victories over Chelsea, Manchester City and Everton – means that Jonas Eidevall’s side deservedly top the WSL table.
Even so, Arsenal’s performance against Barcelona showed that despite their league form there is still work to be done.
Arsenal will be looking to bounce back against Hoffenheim, who the Gunners could comfortably put a few goals past – if they find their groove.