Two out of three: Frankfurt, Dortmund, and Freiburg battle over European spots

By Oliver Trust

BERLIN, May 15 (Xinhua) -- As the end of the 2024/25 season approaches, the German top flight is poised for an exciting race for UEFA Champions League spots and a tense battle in relegation.

While Frankfurt (57 points), Freiburg (55), and Dortmund (54) present a nail-biting race for European positions, the underdog Heidenheim (29) prepares for its final chance to escape relegation battles in the duel against Bremen.

With a Heidenheim miracle needed, Hoffenheim (32) faces Bayern, the 2025 champions, while enjoying a six-goal lead over Heidenheim.

The battle for the top positions appears increasingly unpredictable as Freiburg hosts Frankfurt, while Dortmund takes on relegated Holstein Kiel.

FRANKFURT

Due to the struggles of Dortmund and Leipzig, the doors to the Champions League have opened. Missing the desired goal is almost a disappointment for the 2022 UEFA Europa League winner. A draw in Freiburg is enough to take the final step, while a defeat might shatter all dreams, leaving only Europa League qualification.

Strong nerves in a final-like encounter seem necessary for one of the league's youngest sides. Reports suggest that the club may set a motivating benchmark by extending the contract of coach Dino Toppmoller.

Not to speak of a recent run of five unbeaten games. To reach the Champions League "is like winning the German title for us," board member Axel Hellmann said.

FREIBURG

With an expected Dortmund victory, only a win will take Freiburg to its first Champions League qualification. After missing the big step in the 2012/13 season, the club remained free of internal struggles and lofty expectations and, in 2022 and 2023, made its way into the Europa League campaign.

Having gained 13 points in the recent five encounters, it is spreading optimism, while the current season is already rated as a success.

"Having already reached the Europa League doesn't come naturally for our club," Oliver Leki said. The finance board member is discussing a significant development.

The official stated that the club will not change its approach if it participates in Europe's most attractive competition.

DORTMUND

Nineteen points and twenty-three goals in the last seven games mark the Black and Yellows' resurgence after a bumpy season so far. While coach Niko Kovac receives praise for this unexpected trend, only the final step brings happiness.

Other than in 2023, when the BVB gambled away the German title in a last-season game against Mainz, "we are in a different position this time," says sporting director Sebastian Kehl.

"We are in a hunting position and enter the duel in a more advanced mental state," the official added while mentioning the 4-2 victory in Leverkusen a week ago.

Kehl stated that Kovac has elevated the team to a new level of fitness. Following their likely qualification for the Champions League, BVB will participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Enditem