Werder Bremen before the cup clash: Who will be the new top scorer?
Werder Bremen starts in the DFB Cup against Bielefeld on August 14th, 2025. Coach Steffen relies on offense despite injuries.

Werder Bremen before the cup clash: Who will be the new top scorer?
On Friday at 8:45 p.m. Werder Bremen will take their first steps into the new competition season with an appearance against Bielefeld in the Alb Dream Cup. The preparation for Bremen was long and intensive, 39 days in total, but the last five games ended without a win, which dampened the mood a little. A look at the recent past reveals that Werder lost 2-1 to Bielefeld in the third division in February. Therefore, this match is under particular pressure for coach Horst Steffen and his team.
Despite some challenges in the current preparation for the season, Steffen has largely decided on the cup eleven. Only two positions are still open. However, in an exciting hunt for the place as striker No. 9, things are looking a bit tricky: Top striker Buchen Topp (21) was unable to score any goals in preparation and has not shown the form that we are used to from him. He is currently battling the after-effects of a thigh grip he suffered in the friendly against Udine.
Difficult personnel and injured players
Bremen also can't use the injury-related absences. According to the latest reports, three players are currently missing: Mitchell Weiser, Jens Stage and Amos Pieper are not available to play. Despite these setbacks, the mood in the team remains positive. The players are confident that they can bring the offensive power onto the pitch that has already scored goals in the Bundesliga. There are no psychological problems with scoring goals, rather the need to show trust in the players is emphasized.
When you think about how crucial the analysis of opposing teams is, you shouldn't forget the preparatory work of Bielefeld coach Mitch Kniat. He and his team achieved promotion and reached the DFB Cup final. His respect in the football environment is great, especially from his time in the third division with Verl. For Steffen, who closely analyzed the first half of last season in the cup against Bielefeld, it will be important to also take a close look at the second half and Bielefeld's first two league games.
A look at the striker options
In particular, we are now looking at the performance of Justin Njinmah (24), who was tested in the training camp against Hoffenheim but was unable to convince. On the other hand, Marco Grüll (27), who stood out positively in the training camp, is showing good signs. Samuel Mbangula (21) also appears to be on the left side. In order to keep the fight for the right side exciting, Patrice Covic (18) could be used as a joker if the opportunity arises.
The coming games must mark a turning point for Werder. The belief in one's own strength must return in order to show the hard work and team spirit on the pitch. Looking at the coaching statistics that shed light on the “coaching effect”, it is now time for Steffen to bring success back to Bremen. If you want to play successfully, you not only have to believe in yourself, but you also have to act as a unit and make the most of the opportunities that the game offers.
The moment has now come for Werder Bremen and its fans to rekindle their hopes for a successful season. The fight for two places has started, and the first steps on the way there are crucial.
Further details and information about the preparations can be found in the reports Lomazoma and Werder.de.
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