Overview
- Rot-Weiss Essen travel to Rostock on Saturday at 14:00 with 43 points to Hansa’s 40.
- Hansa are winless in four league matches, most recently losing 0–1 at 1860 München.
- The downturn followed Naderi’s departure, a transfer that improved finances but left a gap up front.
- Coach Daniel Brinkmann did not expect the timing of the move, and the squad felt its impact.
- Essen won the September meeting 3–0 (Safi, Arslan, Brumme), and both teams now seek a reaction after recent dips with Hansa still viewed as dangerous at home.