2. Bundesliga preview: Greuther Fürth vs. SV Darmstadt 98

2. Bundesliga preview: Greuther Fürth vs. SV Darmstadt 98

In keeping with the unpredictable nature of this season’s relegation battle, Fürth have slipped straight back into danger after briefly climbing out of the bottom three. A four-game unbeaten run had offered hope, but with no wins in their last three, they head into the weekend 17th on 30 points and once again under real pressure.

Their most recent outing did little to inspire confidence - a drab 0-0 draw away to bottom side Preußen Münster. Despite the significance of the fixture, Heiko Vogel’s men failed to impose themselves, creating virtually nothing in attack. Noel Futkeu was left isolated up front, reflected in a meagre 0.19 xG and zero big chances created.

Vogel acknowledged the shortcomings in that performance, explaining: “We had to play against two deep-lying defensive lines, which hadn’t been the case before. We became a bit too passive and didn’t create enough chances.” The 51-year-old is, however, expecting a different type of contest this weekend, adding that the game could open up more - something he believes would suit his side.

Darmstadt, meanwhile, have lost momentum at a crucial stage in the promotion race. After an impressive start to 2026 - losing just once in their first ten matches of the calendar year - Die Lilien have now suffered back-to-back defeats, dropping to fifth and five points adrift of the promotion play-off spot.

Last weekend’s 2-0 loss at home to Hannover 96 was particularly damaging. Despite seeing plenty of the ball, Florian Kohfeldt’s side lacked cutting edge in the final third, an issue that was exacerbated by the absence of top scorer Isac Lidberg.

Kohfeldt has played down any concerns over confidence, insisting: “I don’t see any lack of belief. We know what we’re capable of. We have to maintain that conviction that we can impose our game - we’ve earned that through our performances this season.”

The reverse fixture back in November saw Darmstadt come out on top in a lively 4-2 victory, with Fraser Hornby netting twice. However, their recent away form raises concerns, with eight consecutive matches on the road without a win.