Eintracht Faces Travel Issues, Turf Mystery, and Doubts in Baku Match

Eintracht Frankfurt is facing multiple challenges ahead of their match in Baku. The team has encountered travel issues, uncertain field conditions, and doubts surrounding their offensive capabilities.

Travel Issues Ahead of the Match

On Tuesday evening at approximately 9:45 PM local time, Eintracht Frankfurt’s flight DE 9350 landed in Baku. The team consisted of players, VIPs, and a handful of journalists. While the queue at customs progressed quickly, some players experienced delays due to visa errors.

• Nathaniel Brown and Michael Zetterer faced issues with their visa applications.
• The errors stemmed from mistakes in the team management’s paperwork.
• A reporter also got stuck at customs, causing further delays for everyone.

With a national holiday coinciding with their late arrival, the team’s entry process took several hours. Fortunately, all members eventually cleared customs.

Field Condition Concerns

Another hurdle for Eintracht Frankfurt is the condition of the pitch at Tofik-Bakhramov Stadium. This venue is named after the infamous referee from the 1966 World Cup final. Reports indicate that local workers have been trying to clear the field of old ice using blowers. Meanwhile, Baku’s temperatures hover just above freezing, and rain the previous night complicates matters further.

Match Importance for Both Teams

Tonight’s match is crucial for both Eintracht and their opponent, Qarabag Agdam. Eintracht needs a win to keep their hopes of advancing in the Champions League alive. They look to build on previous victories against Benfica (3-2) and Copenhagen (2-0).

• Qarabag also seeks victory after their last league match on December 21 ended in a win against FK Qäbälä.
• Their Champions League season has included a solid performance against Chelsea (2-2).

However, Qarabag’s recent form remains unclear after their last game, and the same uncertainty surrounds Eintracht following their recent coaching change.

Offensive Uncertainties

With injuries to key players Jonathan Burkardt and Michy Batshuayi, the interim coaching duo of Dennis Schmitt and Alex Meier must find solutions in the attack. The duo may attempt to deploy Ritsu Doan, Ansgar Knauff, and Can Uzun in an offensive formation close to the goal.

• Knauff could play as a striker, utilizing his speed.
• Uzun might take on a “false nine” role due to his technical skills.
• Seventeen-year-old Alexander Staff is traveling with the team but will likely remain a substitute option.

Jean-Matteo Bahoya, who has underperformed recently, may not be considered for the starting lineup either. The Eintracht team is determined to overcome these obstacles and secure a vital victory in Baku.