“Harnik gives his derby prediction: what could swing it for HSV…” | OneFootball

As a native of Hamburg, Martin Harnik is looking forward with great anticipation to the city derby. The former HSV star expects a close game.

Only one more day until the derby: On Friday evening (20.30, Sky), Hamburger SV will host FC St. Pauli for the first city duel since May 2024. Back then, the Rothosen won 1:0 in their own stadium, temporarily preventing the Kiezkicker's promotion to the Bundesliga.

Just over a year later, the signs are different. As a newly promoted team, HSV faces last season's fourteenth-placed team. "This is a six-point game," Sky expert Martin Harnik is quoted by Bild . Not just prestige, but also harsh reality in the relegation battle is at stake. "Both teams know: These points can be crucial to keep the competition at a distance."

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Harnik: The Volkspark can become a factor!

But where could possible advantages lie? For Harnik, at least some factors speak for HSV. Above all, the home advantage: "This gigantic atmosphere in the Volkspark can carry the team forward." The newly promoted team showed that it can keep up through fighting spirit, emotions, and defensive stability, even in the goalless draw in Gladbach.

The motivation to celebrate the first Bundesliga success in over seven years could also unleash additional forces. "HSV definitely wants to score three points," says Harnik.

Nevertheless, the striker warns of the qualities of FC St. Pauli. The surprising 3:3 against Borussia Dortmund was not only a statement, but also evidence of the Kiezkicker's footballing maturity. "I see the game at 50 to 50. St. Pauli is more established at Bundesliga level," admits Harnik.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.