VfB Stuttgart vs Union Berlin Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 18 January

VfB Stuttgart will face Union Berlin in an intriguing Bundesliga clash at the MHPArena on Sunday, 18 January. This match promises excitement for fans and bettors alike, as both teams look to assert themselves in the league. The phrase ‘VfB Stuttgart vs Union Berlin Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips’ captures the anticipation surrounding this fixture.

Playing at home, VfB Stuttgart will aim to take advantage of their familiarity with the MHPArena, while Union Berlin will be eager to prove their strength on the road. Both sides have shown competitive form this season, making this a significant fixture in the Bundesliga calendar. The outcome could have implications for their league standings, adding extra intrigue for those considering a bet on the result.

VfB Stuttgart vs Union Berlin Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Second half to have the most goals	2.08

Given the defensive tendencies of both VfB Stuttgart and Union Berlin, our recommended betting tip for this match is ‘Under 0.5 goals.’ Stuttgart’s focus on defensive organisation at home, combined with Union Berlin’s conservative approach away, is likely to result in a low-scoring contest with few clear-cut chances.

• Both teams prioritise defensive structure, making a goalless draw highly plausible.
• Stuttgart’s home matches often feature disciplined defences and fewer goals.
• Union Berlin’s cautious approach on the road reduces the likelihood of a high-scoring game.

Betting Odds

VfB Stuttgart enter this Bundesliga clash as clear favourites, with their odds reflecting a strong home advantage. Union Berlin, meanwhile, are considered underdogs, but their odds may appeal to those seeking an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
VfB Stuttgart to win	1.65
Draw	3.92
Union Berlin to win	5.05

The match odds suggest there is potential for goals, especially given Stuttgart’s attacking strength. Bettors may find value in the over 2.5 goals market, considering both teams’ tendencies to participate in high-scoring affairs.

VfB Stuttgart Analysis & Recent Performance

VfB Stuttgart have shown impressive recent form, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches with four wins and a draw. Notable victories include a commanding 4-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen and a narrow 3-2 triumph against Eintracht Frankfurt, illustrating their attacking prowess and resilience under pressure.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
VfB Stuttgart	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 2 (Win)	Bundesliga	13 Jan 2026
Bayer Leverkusen	VfB Stuttgart	1 – 4 (Win)	Bundesliga	10 Jan 2026
VfB Stuttgart	FC Luzern	3 – 2 (Win)	Club Friendlies	5 Jan 2026
VfB Stuttgart	Hoffenheim	0 – 0 (Draw)	Bundesliga	20 Dec 2025
Werder Bremen	VfB Stuttgart	0 – 4 (Win)	Bundesliga	14 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Stuttgart’s attacking strength is clear, averaging 2.80 goals per game over their last five fixtures, with Deniz Undav leading the way with 10 goals this season. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.00 goal per match and kept 2 clean sheets, highlighting a generally solid, though occasionally vulnerable, back line.

Their home form at the MHPArena has been particularly strong, with a 60% win ratio in their last five home games, demonstrating their ability to make the most of home advantage. Stuttgart currently sit 4th in the Bundesliga with 32 points, underlining their competitive edge and potential to secure a top position this season.

• WWWDW

VfB Stuttgart Suspensions & Injuries

VfB Stuttgart will be without several players due to injuries, which may affect their tactical setup. Dan-Axel Zagadou is sidelined with a tendon injury until late January, leaving a gap in defence. Luca Jaquez and Lazar Jovanovic are also out with hamstring and back injuries, respectively, until late January. Ameen Al Dakhil’s illness makes him doubtful, potentially further limiting Stuttgart’s defensive options.

The absence of Tiago Tomás, recovering from a muscle injury until mid-February, reduces attacking flexibility. Head coach Sebastian Hoeneß may have to rely on the current squad depth, possibly introducing younger players or shifting positions to cover these absences. The defensive line may see more responsibility placed on Maximilian Mittelstädt and Jeff Chabot to maintain stability.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Dan-Axel Zagadou	Tendon injury	Late January 2026
Luca Jaquez	Hamstring injury	Late January 2026
Lazar Jovanovic	Back injury	Late January 2026
Ameen Al Dakhil	Illness	Doubtful
Tiago Tomás	Muscle injury	Mid February 2026

These injuries could influence Stuttgart’s overall performance, as the lack of depth may impact their resilience against Union Berlin’s attack. Bettors should consider these absences when evaluating Stuttgart’s prospects, as the unavailability of key players may affect the team’s defensive solidity and attacking creativity.

VfB Stuttgart Key Players

Deniz Undav stands out as VfB Stuttgart’s top scorer, having netted 10 goals this season. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement make him a constant threat in the final third. Undav’s partnership with fellow forward Ermedin Demirović is pivotal, as their combined movement and understanding can dismantle opposition defences. Demirović’s ability to create space and link play complements Undav’s goal-scoring prowess, making them a formidable duo.

Midfield dynamism will be crucial, with Angelo Stiller and Atakan Karazor providing energy in the centre of the park. Stiller’s vision and passing range allow Stuttgart to transition quickly from defence to attack, while Karazor’s defensive discipline ensures stability. At the back, Jeff Chabot’s leadership and aerial ability are vital in organising the defence and dealing with Union Berlin’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for VfB Stuttgart

• Goalkeeper: Alexander Nübel
• Defenders: Josha Vagnoman, Ramon Hendriks, Jeff Chabot, Maximilian Mittelstädt
• Midfielders: Jamie Leweling, Atakan Karazor, Angelo Stiller, Chris Führich
• Forwards: Deniz Undav, Ermedin Demirović

VfB Stuttgart Tactics and Formation

VfB Stuttgart Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Forward: Deniz Undav
• Midfield Engine: Atakan Karazor and Angelo Stiller
• Defensive Solidity: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and efficient use of wide areas.

VfB Stuttgart’s 4-4-2 setup is designed to maximise their attacking threat while maintaining defensive stability. The forward pairing of Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirović is pivotal, with Undav as the top scorer. This partnership is supported by a dynamic midfield, where Atakan Karazor and Angelo Stiller provide balance between defensive cover and attacking thrust.

Defensively, Stuttgart rely on their back four, with Josha Vagnoman and Maximilian Mittelstädt providing support from the full-back positions. The central defensive pairing of Ramon Hendriks and Jeff Chabot has been crucial in maintaining recent clean sheets, emphasising their solidity at the back.

Offensively, Stuttgart’s strategy focuses on high pressing and exploiting the flanks, with wingers Jamie Leweling and Chris Führich playing key roles. This approach has been effective, as seen in their recent win over Eintracht Frankfurt, where they controlled possession and created numerous chances.

Union Berlin Analysis & Recent Performance

Union Berlin have demonstrated resilience in recent matches, going unbeaten in their last five games across all competitions. This run includes a notable 3-1 victory over RB Leipzig and a 1-1 draw with Augsburg, showcasing their ability to compete effectively both at home and away.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Augsburg	Union Berlin	1 – 1 (Draw)	Bundesliga	15 Jan 2026
Union Berlin	Mainz 05	2 – 2 (Draw)	Bundesliga	10 Jan 2026
Erzgebirge Aue	Union Berlin	1 – 2 (Win)	Club Friendlies	5 Jan 2026
FC Köln	Union Berlin	0 – 1 (Win)	Bundesliga	20 Dec 2025
Union Berlin	RB Leipzig	3 – 1 (Win)	Bundesliga	12 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Union Berlin’s attacking unit has been effective, averaging 1.80 goals per game in their last five matches, while conceding an average of 1.00 goal per match. Although they have kept only one clean sheet, they have scored in all five recent games, indicating consistent attacking prowess.

Away Performance:

• DDWWW

On the road, Union Berlin have been particularly competitive, with a 60% win ratio in their last five away fixtures. They have scored in each of these matches, maintaining an average of 1.60 goals scored and 1.40 goals conceded. Their ability to win away from home, as shown by victories over FC Köln and Erzgebirge Aue, underlines their adaptability and strength in different environments.

Union Berlin Suspensions & Injuries

Union Berlin face several injury concerns as they prepare to take on VfB Stuttgart. Notably, Robert Skov is sidelined with a calf injury and is expected to return in late January 2026. His absence could impact the team’s attacking options, as Skov’s ability to create chances and provide width is vital. Additionally, Tom Rothe is dealing with fitness issues, though he could return in about a week, potentially boosting defensive depth. Tim Skarke remains doubtful with an unspecified injury, leaving head coach Steffen Baumgart to consider alternative tactical setups.

The absence of these players may require tactical adjustments, especially in maintaining width and depth. However, with key players such as Frederik Rønnow, Danilho Doekhi, and Oliver Burke available, Union Berlin retain a solid core. Josip Juranović might be tasked with covering more ground on the flanks to compensate for Skov’s absence, while the midfield will need to be more dynamic to support the attack.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Robert Skov	Calf injury	Late January 2026
Tom Rothe	Fitness issues	About a week
Tim Skarke	Unknown	Doubtful

These injuries could influence betting markets, as Union Berlin’s attacking potency might be somewhat diminished. However, their defensive stability and the presence of experienced players in key positions may still give them a fighting chance against Stuttgart. Bettors should factor in these absences when assessing Union Berlin’s potential performance.

Union Berlin Key Players

Union Berlin’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Ilyas Ansah, the team’s top scorer this season with 5 goals. Ansah’s ability to find space and his clinical finishing make him a constant danger in the final third. His partnership with Oliver Burke up front is crucial, as Burke’s physicality and pace can unsettle Stuttgart’s defence, creating opportunities for Ansah.

In midfield, the experience of Rani Khedira and the creativity of Woo-Yeong Jeong are pivotal. Khedira’s role as a deep-lying playmaker allows him to dictate the tempo, while Jeong’s ability to break lines with his dribbling and passing will be key to unlocking Stuttgart’s defence. On the flanks, Josip Juranović’s crossing ability adds another dimension to their attack.

Expected lineup for Union Berlin

• Goalkeeper: Frederik Rønnow
• Defenders: Danilho Doekhi, Leopold Querfeld, Diogo Leite
• Midfielders: Rani Khedira, Christopher Trimmel, András Schäfer, Josip Juranović, Woo-Yeong Jeong, Ilyas Ansah
• Forward: Oliver Burke

Defensively, Danilho Doekhi and Diogo Leite form a strong partnership at the back. Doekhi’s aerial prowess and Leite’s composure on the ball are essential for maintaining defensive stability and launching counter-attacks. With these key players, Union Berlin’s tactical approach will likely focus on quick transitions and exploiting spaces behind Stuttgart’s defensive line.

Union Berlin Tactics and Formation

Union Berlin Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Oliver Burke
• Midfield Pivot: Rani Khedira and András Schäfer
• Defensive Strength: Three-man backline with Doekhi, Querfeld, and Leite
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wing play and counter-attacking opportunities.

Union Berlin’s 3-4-2-1 formation is designed to provide defensive solidity while allowing for attacking flexibility. The back three of Danilho Doekhi, Leopold Querfeld, and Diogo Leite is crucial for maintaining the team’s defensive shape, helping them keep clean sheets in key matches.

In midfield, the combination of Rani Khedira and András Schäfer offers a robust pivot, balancing defensive responsibilities with creative transitions. With Christopher Trimmel and Josip Juranović as wing-backs, Union Berlin look to exploit width and create crossing opportunities for forward Oliver Burke.

Offensively, Oliver Burke leads the line, supported by Woo-Yeong Jeong and Ilyas Ansah, who provide creativity and attacking impetus. Union Berlin’s strategy often centres on rapid counter-attacks, using the pace and dynamism of their wingers to unsettle opposing defences.

VfB Stuttgart vs Union Berlin Head-to-Head Record

In their last 16 head-to-head meetings, VfB Stuttgart have claimed 5 wins, while Union Berlin have 4 victories, with 7 matches ending in a draw. The most recent encounter saw Union Berlin edge Stuttgart 2-1 in the Bundesliga in August 2025.

The last time Stuttgart hosted Union Berlin in the Bundesliga, it was a thrilling 3-2 victory for the home side in December 2024. Stuttgart have a knack for getting results at home, winning their last three home fixtures against Union in all competitions.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Union Berlin	VfB Stuttgart	2 – 1	Bundesliga	2025-08-23
Union Berlin	VfB Stuttgart	4 – 4	Bundesliga	2025-04-19
VfB Stuttgart	Union Berlin	3 – 2	Bundesliga	2024-12-06
VfB Stuttgart	Union Berlin	2 – 0	Bundesliga	2024-03-08
VfB Stuttgart	Union Berlin	1 – 0	DFB Pokal	2023-10-31