Wolfsburg had home stability but the pressure of the playoff weighed heavily. Paderborn were compact and difficult to break down in transition.

These teams met infrequently, making H2H data limited. However, playoff matches in the Bundesliga tend to be tight and low-scoring.

Wolfsburg: Ridle Baku available despite knock. Paderborn: Full squad fit and motivated.

Relegation playoff matches are historically tight, tense affairs with few goals. Both teams will prioritize not making mistakes, leading to a cagey first leg.

Under 2.5 goals at 72% confidence. Bundesliga relegation playoffs have averaged 1.9 goals per match over the last decade. The pressure of the occasion typically suppresses attacking ambition in the first leg.