Bundesliga LIVE: Werner Returns, Ilic Benched for RB Leipzig Clash

The 14th matchday of the Bundesliga presents an exciting weekend ahead for football fans. Key matchups include the Rheinderby as Bayer Leverkusen takes on 1. FC Köln and a pivotal fixture featuring Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern. Anticipation builds as teams vie for crucial points before the winter break.
Bundesliga Preview: Key Matches This Weekend
This Friday evening, 1. FC Union Berlin faces RB Leipzig, hoping to break a difficult streak. The match is set for 20:30 at the Alte Försterei. Union Berlin, struggling in recent weeks, finds itself in 12th place and has not secured a point in the last three games. They will be pressured to perform against the second-placed Leipzig, which aims to close the gap on league leaders Bayern Munich.
Union Berlin’s Challenge
- Union Berlin holds a precarious position, sitting just above the relegation zone.
- They have lost ground, managing only one win in the last six matches.
- Notably, they’ve dropped five points at home due to late-game goals conceded in their last three fixtures.
Coach Steffen Baumgart expressed frustration over the team’s offensive struggles, particularly stating their forwards have not scored since their fourth match of the season. With significant pressure, he expects his players to deliver a solid performance against RB Leipzig.
RB Leipzig’s Strong Form
RB Leipzig enters the match on a high note, riding the momentum of their recent 6-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. They have not conceded a goal in their last three league matches and possess a formidable defensive record, featuring several clean sheets this season.
- Timo Werner returns to the squad, adding depth to an already talented lineup.
- The team also features young stars such as Yan Diomande and Conrad Harder, who have been instrumental in their recent successes.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, Leipzig will look to maintain their strong standing and potentially extend their lead over the competition.
Match Schedule and Key Fixtures
The weekend features several high-stakes matches:
| Day | Match | Time | Broadcast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | 1. FC Union Berlin vs. RB Leipzig | 20:30 | Sky |
| Saturday | Eintracht Frankfurt vs. FC Augsburg | 15:30 | Sky, DAZN |
| Saturday | Borussia Mönchengladbach vs. VfL Wolfsburg | 15:30 | Sky, DAZN |
| Saturday | St. Pauli vs. 1. FC Heidenheim | 15:30 | Sky, DAZN |
| Saturday | TSG Hoffenheim vs. Hamburger SV | 15:30 | Sky, DAZN |
| Saturday | Bayer Leverkusen vs. 1. FC Köln | 18:30 | Sky |
| Sunday | SC Freiburg vs. Borussia Dortmund | 15:30 | DAZN |
| Sunday | FC Bayern vs. Mainz 05 | 17:30 | DAZN |
| Sunday | Werder Bremen vs. VfB Stuttgart | 19:30 | DAZN |
As the Bundesliga approaches the winter break, every match carries significant weight. Clubs are eager to consolidate their positions and build momentum for the second half of the season.




