- Date and Time: Friday, January 24, 2025, 19:30 GMT+1
- Venue: Volkswagen Arena, Wolfsburg, Germany
Wolfsburg vs Holstein Kiel Preview
Wolfsburg
Wolfsburg enters this match with mixed form, displaying moments of brilliance but struggling with consistency.
Under the tactical guidance of Ralph Hasenhüttl, the squad have leaned on set pieces and counterattacks as their primary offensive weapons. Key players like Maximilian Arnold and Mohamed Amoura have been pivotal.
Arnold’s precise deliveries have resulted in Wolfsburg being the league’s most prolific team from set-pieces. Amoura’s pace and agility in the final third have made him a significant threat.
The new Wolf in training! 💪
Andreas Skov Olsen 🐺 🇩🇰 pic.twitter.com/sJpWTug8iO
— VfL Wolfsburg EN/US 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@VfLWolfsburg_EN) January 22, 2025
Wolfsburg’s ability to exploit set pieces has been a hallmark of their season. With 11 goals scored from dead-ball situations, they’ve shown their ability to take advantage of tight games where opportunities during open play are limited.
Arnold’s deliveries are often targeted towards Denis Vavro, whose aerial dominance makes him an asset during corners and free kicks. Furthermore, the interplay between Vavro and Amoura in such situations has caused trouble for opposition defenses throughout the season.
Defensively, Wolfsburg has shown vulnerabilities. The team’s high-pressing system often leaves gaps in transition. Their inability to maintain compactness has been exposed by faster opposition.
It’s the Bence and Patrick show! 😃🐺 pic.twitter.com/xIBxNmM0LB
— VfL Wolfsburg EN/US 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@VfLWolfsburg_EN) January 21, 2025
This was evident in their recent 3-2 loss to Bayern Munich, where they were undone by quick switches of play. Additionally, the defensive pairing of Koulierakis and Vavro, while physically dominant, has occasionally struggled with positional awareness against agile forwards.
In terms of injuries, Wolfsburg will miss the services of Jakub Kamiński, sidelined with a hamstring issue. This could weaken their left flank both offensively and defensively. Jakub Kamiński’s absence forces Hasenhüttl to rely on Patrick Wimmer, whose defensive discipline has been questionable. Holstein Kiel may target this area.
Holstein Kiel
Holstein Kiel, the Bundesliga newcomers, arrive at the Volkswagen Arena as underdogs. Despite their league position, they’ve shown remarkable fighting spirit, which is highlighted by their stunning 4-2 win against Borussia Dortmund. Shuto Machino and Phil Harres have been standout performers, delivering masterful set pieces and proving clinical in front of goal.
Tactically, Holstein Kiel have alternated between a 4-4-2 and a 3-4-3 formation. Their compact defensive shape has frustrated stronger opponents. However, their reliance on counterattacks often leaves their backline exposed to sustained pressure.
A significant weakness has been the team’s defensive transition, conceding 46 goals this season. This highlights their struggles in Germany’s top flight.
⚔️🏃♂️✌️✍️
_#KielAhoi pic.twitter.com/wNtSCjQWTs— Holstein Kiel (@Holstein_Kiel) January 21, 2025
Holstein Kiel’s victory against Borussia Dortmund showcased their potential when tactics align effectively. Machino’s deliveries into the box were met with determination from Harres, whose ability to time his runs and finish clinically was crucial.
Reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive squad play has made them inconsistent. Against teams like Wolfsburg, who thrive on exploiting gaps, this could prove costly.
Marcel Rapp’s men faces selection headaches, with Lewis Holtby suspended and Marvin Schulz unavailable due to injury. The absence of these experienced players could impact their midfield cohesion. Without Holtby’s leadership, Magnus Knudsen will need to step up and control the tempo, a challenging task against Wolfsburg’s aggressive midfield.
Bet hereWolfsburg vs Holstein Kiel Prediction
- Football pick: Wolfsburg to win
- Odds: (22Bet)
- Score prediction: Wolfsburg 3-1 Holstein Kiel
Wolfsburg’s superior squad depth and home advantage make them favorites. However, Holstein’s counterattacking prowess could see them find the net, especially against a side prone to defensive lapses. Expect Arnold to dominate the midfield and Amoura to exploit Kiel’s high defensive line.
The hosts’ tactical flexibility under Hasenhüttl will likely give them the edge. The team’s ability to adapt during games, shifting between high pressing and controlled possession, could overwhelm the guests’ less experienced lineup. Holstein’s reliance on individual moments of brilliance might not be enough to bridge the gap in quality.
📸 Matchday 18 🆚 @FCBayernUS #FCBWOB pic.twitter.com/E7ziEQtJ2t
— VfL Wolfsburg EN/US 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@VfLWolfsburg_EN) January 18, 2025
While Wolfsburg boasts superior talent and experience, their encounters with newly promoted sides have not always been straightforward. Kiel’s ability to execute quick counterattacks has proven effective against clubs that commit numbers forward. This was clearly demonstrated in their victories over Dortmund and Augsburg.
However, their defensive issues frequently undermine their hard work, making them vulnerable to conceding under sustained pressure.
Wolfsburg’s strength lies in their set-piece efficiency, while Holstein struggles to defend such situations. The visitors have conceded 7 goals from set plays this season, highlighting an apparent weakness that the hosts will undoubtedly aim to exploit.
Additionally, Wolfsburg’s home form has been solid, with the Volkswagen Arena serving as a fortress where they’ve claimed the majority of their points.
Wolfsburg vs Holstein Kiel Betting Tip
- Football Pick: Over 2.5 Goals
- Odds: (22Bet)
This match presents an intriguing battle between a Wolfsburg side aiming for European contention and a Holstein team fighting to survive. While hosts, with their superior quality and tactical prowess, are the favourites. Kiel’s unpredictability and resilience cannot be underestimated. Expect an engaging contest filled with tactical nuances and moments of individual brilliance.
Mohamed Amoura at the Allianz yesterday vs @FCBayernUS ⬇️ 🇩🇿 🐺
4⃣ Shots
2⃣ GoalsEfficiency ✅ #VfLWolfsburg pic.twitter.com/o192AWvrmj
— VfL Wolfsburg EN/US 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@VfLWolfsburg_EN) January 19, 2025
I think this clash promises goals. The reliance of Wolfsburg on set-pieces and attacking power combined with the resilience and counter-attacking potential of Holstein Kiel should make for an interesting game. Amoura’s current form makes him a strong candidate to get on the scorer’s list.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this page, including all football predictions, odds, and related information, is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy and timeliness, we do not guarantee the correctness or reliability of any predictions, data, or information presented here.
Make sure to bet on Wolfsburg vs Holstein Kiel with our 22Bet Sportsbook!
Bet here
