Borussia Dortmund are strong favorites to continue their upward trajectory. They are beginning to look like the only side capable of mounting a serious challenge to Bayern Munich, despite currently trailing them by 11 points.

They face an out-of-form St. Pauli side that has struggled significantly in away matches, scoring just six goals in nine games. Only Hamburg have a worse away scoring record, with just five goals so far.

St. Pauli are further weakened by several key absences, all in attacking areas. Midfield leader Irvine is unavailable, while attackers Hountondji their top scorer with four goals and Sinani are also sidelined through injury. These absences go a long way toward explaining their recent attacking struggles.