Women: Preview of league restart against MSV Duisburg

Exactly 90 days separate the last Bundesliga match for the Bayer 04 women (0-1 against SC Sand) and the restart on Saturday. The squad, led by head coach Achim Feifel, returned to full training last week after previously working individually and then in small groups. The team have been staying at the Große Ledder Hotel in Wermelskirchen since Monday. Previously, the Werkself first team under Peter Bosz used the hotel as the quarantine training camp. The Bayer 04 Women travel to the Kurtekotten Academy by coach every day for training. “We have optimum conditions to prepare for the final phase of the season,” explained Feifel.

However, the situation for the 55-year-old and his players ahead of the game against the team in tenth place is difficult: “Both teams don’t really know where they are at the moment. We haven’t had the chance to play any friendlies. Due to the importance of this game, it will be a very hard-fought match. The opponents need points just like we do to stay in the league. It will be a battle for 90 minutes with Duisburg pushing us all the way.”

“A very tough team”

For Feifel, the strengths of MSV Duisburg particularly lie in the mentality of the team: “They are a very tough team who are very good and compact in defence. They are well organised when the opposition has possession but can quickly switch to going on the attack with long balls.” That’s why it’s no surprise to Feifel that Duisburg picked up points in the last two matches before the league was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic: They secured 2-2 draws against SC Freiburg and FC Bayern.

Even after the break, Feifel still has to manage without long-term injuries Melissa Friedrich, Pauline Wimmer (both torn cruciates) and Karoline Heinze (back problems). Isabel Kerschowski is currently sidelined with muscular problems, but a return to full training is expected over the course of next week.

Match streamed live

The match at Kurtekotten will be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic. Werkself fans can watch the game live on DFB-TV (tv.dfb.de). And the FLYERALARM Women’s Bundesliga has also attracted a lot of interest abroad: The Scottish TV broadcaster BBC Alba will show selected matches in the UK including the away game for the Bayer 04 Women at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on 5 June.