Matchday 1
Times in Central European Time.
- Friday 28 August
-
FC Bayern München – VfB Stuttgart
A fast-paced season opener in a full arena, with woodwork early on and a competitive first half. The busiest stretch comes shortly after the break.
5 out of 10, If you have time - Saturday 29 August
-
RB Leipzig – Borussia Mönchengladbach
An open, high-pressing first half with chances at both ends and woodwork along the way. The second half is quicker on the counter but more stop-start.
4 out of 10, If you have time -
1. FSV Mainz 05 – SC Paderborn 07
A cagey, even first half with few clear openings and one effort off the woodwork. The second half picks up the tempo but never really catches fire.
3 out of 10, Skip it -
1. FC Union Berlin – Eintracht Frankfurt
A frantic opening ten minutes sets the tone in a sold-out, roaring stadium, and both sides keep attacking all afternoon. Stay until the very last whistle.
8 out of 10, Worth it -
1. FC Köln – TSG Hoffenheim
A controlled first half gives way to a fast, emotional second with chances at both ends and a penalty moment. A loud crowd, and it stays open until the end.
8 out of 10, Worth it -
SV 07 Elversberg – Bayer 04 Leverkusen
A wild opening ten minutes in a small, buzzing ground, then an eventful restart and woodwork along the way. The final quarter of an hour is the best part.
7 out of 10, Worth it -
Borussia Dortmund – Hamburger SV
A brisk first half built on quick passing in a packed stadium. The second half is livelier, with chances at both ends, a post and some heated challenges.
4 out of 10, If you have time - Sunday 30 August
-
SC Freiburg – SV Werder Bremen
Most of the action comes either side of half-time, with quality in the final third and one standout individual display. The closing half-hour is quieter.
4 out of 10, If you have time -
FC Augsburg – FC Schalke 04
A bright opening with chances at both ends and a goal-line clearance inside the first minutes. Plenty of shots after the break too, though it is rarely gripping.
4 out of 10, If you have time