Union Berlin without top scorer Becker in Braga
For the debut of new coach Nenad Bjelica, Bundesliga club Union Berlin will be without goalscorer Sheraldo Becker for the Champions League group match at Sporting Braga on Wednesday (21:00/DAZN). The club made the announcement on the eve of the game. Becker had scored both goals in the 2:3 draw in the first leg. The Köpenickers, without a win in 15 competitive matches, must score at the Portuguese first division club to keep their chances of qualifying for the Europa League alive. In addition to Becker, defender Danilo Doekhi is also out.
"We were able to train together for the first time on Monday and have had two days to prepare the team. I expect maximum commitment and concentration from the first to the last minute tomorrow - because we want to spend the winter in Europe, and that's only possible with a positive result," said Bjelica ahead of his debut.
Braga are in third place with three points after winning the first leg at Union. The Berliners have only picked up one point from their four games so far with a 1-1 draw in Naples and will host leaders Real Madrid on the final matchday of Group C. Third place entitles them to a place in the Europa League after the winter break, while international business is over for the team in fourth place after six matchdays.
Despite Becker's absence due to his crucial goal contributions in the previous match, 1st FC Union Berlin must aim to score against Sporting Braga in the Champions League group stage to keep their Europa League qualification hopes alive. Regardless, Braga, currently in third place after winning the first leg, will be determined to maintain their position in the competition when they face Union Berlin, who have only managed one point in their four Champions League matches thereby placing them below Braga in the group standings.
Source: www.dpa.com
