Stuttgart v Arminia Bielefeld
Bundesliga - Saturday 17 May 2008
Stuttgart, in 7th place have a chance of a Uefa Cup place, but will face a Bielefeld side that are fighting for their Bundesliga status, just one place and two points above Nurnberg and the relegation zone.
Stuttgart have had contrasting fortunes when home or away this season; away from home they have only taken 14 points from 17 games, but at home they have been superb, taking a Bundesliga 3rd best 37 points from 16 games (12-1-3).
In contrast, Bielefeld’s away form is the equal worst in the league (1-5-10); their one win away from home was their first away fixture of the season against Wolfsburg (3-1) back in August, leaving them winless from their last 15 away games.
Despite losing their last 2 games (both away from home), Stuttgart have won their last 6 home games in a row and should again be able to turn it on at home; 5 of those 6 wins were by 2 goals or more, and though they play a Bielefeld side fighting for their league status, 7 of Bielefeld’s 10 away losses this season have also been by 2 goals or more – Stuttgart should ease to a convincing win.
Stuttgart’s $1.65 to win, though surprising considering the sides’ differing home and away form is still slightly too short to take; instead, given Stuttgart’s comprehensive home victories in recent home games, the handicap win at $2.62 from Betsafe should offer more value.
Stake: 6pts
Bet: Handicap Stuttgart win (Stuttgart -1 goal)
Odds: $2.62
Bookmaker: Betsafe
