RB Expects a “Tough” Match Against Elversberg — Demichelis Remains Positive

Martín Demichelis knows the ins and outs of the soccer business. Following the losses to Bayern Munich (1–6) and Real Madrid (1–4), the coach must deliver with RB Leipzig in Saturday’s Bundesliga match against newly promoted SV Elversberg 07 (3:30 p.m./Sky).““If we play a good game, we’ll be closer to the three points,” said Demichelis.

And he asked: “What happens if we only manage a draw? Should I kill the players? Life goes on. And I’ll keep living anyway. I’ll always stay positive and try to do my job. We’ll try to be strong here at home,” emphasized the Argentine, who has been the subject of criticism and also took a swipe at the media.

After the 1–6 loss in Munich, several players had come under particular criticism. “It’s better to criticize the coach than the players. If the team plays poorly, I’m responsible. Criticizing individual mistakes isn’t good, because everyone makes mistakes—you do in your personal lives, and so do I as a human being,” said Demichelis.

Elversberg: A “Very Tough Team”

Against the team from Saarland, his squad aims to maintain its perfect record in Bundesliga home games and, at the same time, improve its record against promoted teams. Since their own promotion, they have yet to suffer a loss against a newcomer in 40 matches.

But Elversberg is a tough opponent. “A very tough team that didn’t make it to the Bundesliga by accident and has already beaten quite a few opponents. They play with brutal intensity in the first 15 to 20 minutes. We’ve already prepared for that and talked to the guys about it,” said the RB coach, announcing a few lineup changes. It is uncertain whether Christopher Nkunku will be able to play. The Frenchman is experiencing mild adductor discomfort.