Freiburg to the fore-front, Valencia to the back of the mind. "Our complete concentration is focused on Saturdays appointment in Freiburg, when that's out of the way we'll worry about Valencia", claimed trainer Thomas Schaaf. The Bundesligas last away game of the first round of matches is essential for the Green-Whites who know that a successful result could instill the confidence needed to push them through the two remaining game before the Christmas break.

Sport director Klaus Allofs commented, "The best preparation for the 'Final' against Valencia would be a win against SC Freiburg." Speaking of winning; following a run of four games without one, Werder finally broke their duck with a 2:0 win over Borussia Dortmund last weekend - the true value of this win won't really be clear until 5:15pm on Saturday evening. Only a positive result in Badenova stadium can keep the Green-Whites hopes of retaining their title alive. "We've left a lot of points behind in the Bundesliga this season but it's not too late yet. With two wins against Freiburg and Kaiserslautern we will be left in a fantastic position to really go for it during the second round of matches", said Thomas Schaaf.

Valdez still suspended in the league

Ivan Klasnic can't really 'go for' anything yet. The Croatian striker is still suffering from the effects of a shoulder injury and will most likely be unavailable for Saturdays game. Considering the suspension of Nelson Valdez after his red card, common sense would suggest a strike duo of Klose and Charisteas. At the back, the trainer is totally spoiled for choice. Especially thankful for this match free week was the long suffering Frank Fahrenhorst who took the oportunity to catch up the ground on his colleagues, although a starting eleven place for 'Fahne' is probably still too early.

SC Freiburg have their backs against the wall in the Bundesliga. 15 games, 10 points, 17th place - those are the statistics facing the so called 'Breisgau-Brazilians'. Above all, trainer Volker Finkes side have proven weak in front of their home fans. The defence built around youngster Sascha Riether has often appeared unconcentrated and shaky, with too many missed chances the problem at the other end. "It's a long time since the situation was as unhappy as a at the moment", admitted captain Richard Golz looking at the table. "Nothings lost yet though, there's too much potential in the side for that", said the keeper, confident in his colleagues.

1,000 Werder fans in Freiburg

Those responsible at Werder are well aware of the situation in Freiburg. "They're not exactly pouring with confidence right now, but that could change very quickly", warned Thomas Schaaf who has the following words for his players, "We've got to win the challenges, which will stop them from putting their strong combinations together." The Green-Whites can call on the vocal support of some 1,000 Werder fans who will travel to the far South West of the country. Only a win can satisfy either side.

Johhnie Muldoon