Sebastian Hoeneß is really looking forward to Wednesday’s match in Belgrade, particularly because FK Crvena Zvezda’s Rajko Mitic Stadium holds fond memories for him. In December 2020, during his time as TSG 1899 Hoffenheim head coach, he oversaw 0-0 draw there in the UEFA Europa League.
Getting familiar with the surroundings
“We decided to hold our final training session in Belgrade, rather than Stuttgart,” said Hoeneß at his pre-match press conference. “Getting a feel for the pitch and seeing the changing rooms and the long players’ tunnel beforehand can all help on Wednesday evening when the atmosphere will be really fiery inside the stadium.”
The home fans at the 50,000-capacity arena are famed for being noisier than most, so VfB are hoping to keep their cool in a heated environment.
“We’re not just well prepared for the game in terms of tactics; we know what to expect in Belgrade,” continued Hoeneß. “Crvena Zvezda are the top dogs in Serbia. We shouldn’t be deceived by the Champions League table, especially as they’ve faced some big teams in the competition so far.”
Wednesday’s hosts do not have any points on the board yet, leaving them bottom of the league phase standings. Hoeneß will not be underestimating them, however, as the 42-year-old believes they have considerably more quality than their current position might suggest.
Hoeneß: “We’ve got some solutions in mind”
The coach would not be drawn on how he will set his team up in attack given the injury-enforced absences of El Bilal (broken foot), Deniz Undav and Jamie Leweling (both out with thigh complaints), but a reshuffle will be required.
“We’ve got some solutions in mind and I’m confident that they’ll work well, especially against Crvena Zvezda,” said Hoeneß, who understandably did not want to give anything else away. VfB will provide the all answers on Wednesday at the cauldron that is the Rajko Mitic Stadium.