VfL Bochum 1848 - 1. FC Nürnberg ai prediction 20.02.2026 2. Bundesliga

Preview for match VfL Bochum vs 1. FC Nürnberg

As the 2. Bundesliga approaches its 23rd matchday, the spotlight falls on the Vonovia Ruhrstadion where VfL Bochum will host 1. FC Nürnberg on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 18:30. This encounter promises to be a fascinating contest between two teams vying for improvement in their league standings. Currently, VfL Bochum sits in 9th place with 28 points, while 1. FC Nürnberg occupies the 8th position with 29 points. The gap in points reflects the competitive nature of the league, where every match could alter the trajectory of a season.

VfL Bochum comes into this match with a mixed bag of results, having registered 7 wins, 7 draws, and 8 defeats so far. Their goal difference of 30:27 illustrates a relatively balanced offensive and defensive performance. At home, Bochum's record shows a decent form with 5 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. However, their last outing against SC Paderborn 07 ended in a goalless draw, indicating a struggle to convert opportunities into goals.

Conversely, 1. FC Nürnberg enters the match with a slightly better overall record, having secured 8 wins, 5 draws, and 9 defeats, with a goal difference of 29:31. Their away record, however, is concerning, with only 2 wins out of 10 matches, coupled with 7 defeats. In their most recent match, Nürnberg enjoyed a commanding 5-1 victory against Karlsruher SC, which could serve as a much-needed boost in confidence heading into this fixture.

The historical context of this matchup adds further intrigue. The last direct meeting saw 1. FC Nürnberg triumph with a 2-1 victory at home, and in their last five encounters, both teams have secured 2 wins each, alongside 1 draw. This parity suggests that the upcoming match could be closely contested, with both sides eager to assert their dominance.

Our betting tip for the match VfL Bochum vs 1. FC Nürnberg

Our betting prediction for this intriguing matchup leans towards a home win for VfL Bochum. Given their solid home record and the psychological edge of playing in front of their supporters, Bochum is well-positioned to secure the three points. The odds for a home win stand at 2.12 with Betika, reflecting the bookmakers' confidence in their ability to triumph.

Furthermore, we anticipate that both teams will find the net during the match. The attacking prowess shown by 1. FC Nürnberg in their last match, coupled with Bochum's tendency to concede, suggests that a bet on "Both teams to score" at odds of 1.65 with Paripesa is a prudent choice.

Our tips

Total Goals

Under 2.5

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 4 of VfL Bochum's last 5 matches.

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 2 of 1. FC Nürnberg's last 5 matches.

Top odds at Bet9ja

Double Chance

1X

VfL Bochum have won or drawn 5 of their last 5 matches.

1. FC Nürnberg have drawn or lost 3 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Double Chance

X2

VfL Bochum have drawn or lost 4 of their last 5 matches.

1. FC Nürnberg have won or drawn 3 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI prediction for the match VfL Bochum vs 1. FC Nürnberg

The AI prediction for this match suggests that VfL Bochum is favored to win, with a suggested scoreline of 2-1. Analyzing their home performance and the overall trends in their recent games, Bochum appears to have a slight edge. The forecast further supports a scenario where both teams score, reflecting their recent offensive displays.

VfL Bochum performance check

VfL Bochum's current form indicates a team in search of consistency. Under the management of Uwe Rösler, they have shown resilience, especially at home. Despite their recent draw against SC Paderborn, they remain competitive in the league. With 5 wins at home, Bochum is capable of exploiting their home advantage, and they will aim to convert their opportunities more effectively in this upcoming match.

How is the current performance of 1. FC Nürnberg

1. FC Nürnberg, managed by Miroslav Klose, has experienced a rollercoaster season. Their last match produced an impressive 5-1 victory, showcasing their attacking capabilities. However, their away form leaves much to be desired, having only managed 2 wins in 10 matches. This inconsistency poses a challenge as they prepare to face a determined Bochum side on their home turf.

Last direct match

The most recent encounter between these two teams saw 1. FC Nürnberg emerge victorious with a 2-1 scoreline. This result will undoubtedly motivate Bochum as they seek to avenge their previous defeat.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

In the last five meetings between VfL Bochum and 1. FC Nürnberg, the record shows 2 wins for Bochum, 2 draws, and 1 win for Nürnberg. This history indicates a competitive rivalry that could influence the outcome of the upcoming match.

Performance last 5 matches

In their last five matches, VfL Bochum has secured 1 victory and drawn 4 times, showcasing their ability to avoid defeat. Meanwhile, 1. FC Nürnberg has recorded 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, reflecting a more varied form as they strive for stability.

Performance

VfL Bochum

Last games

VfL Bochum performance of the last 7 home matches

Victories

42%

Over 2.5

42%

1. FC Nürnberg

Last games

1. FC Nürnberg performance of the last 3 away matches

Victories

0%

Over 2.5

33%

Last match results VfL Bochum and 1. FC Nürnberg

VfL Bochum's last match resulted in a 0-0 draw against SC Paderborn, while 1. FC Nürnberg achieved an emphatic 5-1 victory over Karlsruher SC. These contrasting results set the stage for an intriguing matchup.

Best odds and our betting tip

The best odds for a home win are available at 2.12 with Betika, while a draw can be found at 3.50 with Paripesa. For those considering a bet on 1. FC Nürnberg to win, the odds stand at 3.60 with Mozzart. Our experience with various betting sites suggests that these odds are competitive, making it worthwhile to compare them to find the best betting sites for your needs.

Conclusion on the match

In conclusion, VfL Bochum is poised to take advantage of their home ground against a struggling 1. FC Nürnberg. With the combination of their solid home record and the psychological edge of their last meeting, Bochum is the favorite to emerge victorious. The predicted outcome is a 2-1 win for Bochum, with both teams likely to score.

Here are tomorrow's best betting tips as the action in the 2. Bundesliga continues to unfold.