Small North Derby with big potential
Werder won the last showdown 3-0 with Claudio Pizarro (right), Sebastian Prödl and Markus Rosenberg all scoring once.Werder coach Thomas Schaaf praised the momentum in Hannover. "I am happy about the great development in Hannover. They have shown a lot in the league and internationally," said Schaaf. And Hannover's success looks to be continuing in 2012-13.
The signs look good. Few teams can suggest they have come up with nearly a perfect start to the season. But Hannover is one of them. New acquisitions Felipe, Szabolcs Hustzi and Adrian Nikci have all adjusted quickly to the new team. And 22 goals in the first five competitive matches (Europa League qualification, German DFB Cup and Bundesliga) speaks volumes. "They are on a great run and have lots of confidence. And they are showing that," said Schaaf.
On the last game day, as Werder beat Hamburg 2-0 in the big North Derby, Mirko Slomka's Hannover side wiped past Wolfsburg on the road 4-0 in the Lower Saxony derby. Now the two derby winners face off. "I am really looking forward to this game. It will be an interesting one," said Schaaf.
It's a showdown that in the recent past has provided plenty of excitement and a number of goals. In March earlier this year, the teams faced off and Werder won 3-0 at Weser Stadium. But the games before that are probably less positive memories for Werder fans. Hannover won both of the previous two games at home 3-2 and 4-1, with Mohammed Abdellaoue serving as the bogey man. He has played three matches against Bremen and scored four goals - more than against any other team.
