Matarazzo wants his team to find the right balance between control and risk when they take to the field this weekend. “We haven’t been lacking creativity of late, but the courage to take risks,” said the VfB boss. “We want to keep the intensity levels high while simultaneously easing the pressure by alleviating the boys’ fears of losing possession. We need deep runs, one-on-one situations and the courage to lose the ball from time to time before winning it back through counter-pressing.”
No personnel worries
“[Karlsruher] have really steadied the ship under Christian Eichner and have only conceded 10 goals in 10 games,” continued Matarazzo. “They’re very compact and defend with 100 per cent commitment after losing possession. Going forward they’re strong on the wings and attack with a lot of crosses, headers and set pieces.”
Matarazzo has a near-full squad to choose from for the trip to KSC, with Daniel Didavi available again after recovering from a slight knock. “Dida trained yesterday and is fit for Sunday,” said the 42-year-old. “Whether he starts or not depends on how fit he’s feeling.”
The head coach has something of a selection headache in attack, with Sasa Kalajdzic and Mario Gomez competing with Hamadi Al Ghaddioui for a place in the side. “Mario is doing everything well,” Matarazzo said of the veteran striker. “His willingness to fight for the team and give his all really impresses me. Even though he’s only made cameo appearances of late, those brief outings have shown he’s ready.”