Bochum vs Nurnberg Prediction 20.02.2026 | 2. Bundesliga

VfL Bochum return to their fortress at Vonovia Ruhrstadion riding an impressive wave of resilience, having avoided defeat in each of their last eight Bundesliga fixtures — a run that has helped them establish a valuable five-point cushion above the relegation zone.

While Die Unabsteigbaren have morphed into one of the division’s most difficult sides to break down, a recent flood of stalemates — sharing the spoils in six matches during their current unbeaten stretch — highlights the need to convert draws into victories if they are to ease their survival concerns with greater certainty.

Their strong home record against 1. FC Nürnberg further strengthens their position heading into Friday night’s encounter. Having won four of their previous five meetings in the Ruhr Valley, Bochum enter the clash as slight favorites to extend their commendable unbeaten run in the German top flight.

However, the hosts will be without several key figures for the contest. Experienced centre-back Kevin Vogt and captain Matus Bero are ruled out through injury, while Philipp Strompf and Koji Miyoshi are unavailable as they serve suspensions.

From the visitors’ perspective, 1. FC Nürnberg travel to the Ruhr Valley in renewed spirits after delighting their loyal supporters last week with an emphatic 5-1 demolition of Karlsruher SC, a result that brought an end to their three-game winless run.

Despite their recent goal-scoring exploits, Der Club remain the league’s ultimate “Jekyll and Hyde” side. They possess a potent attacking unit that has produced 29 goals so far, yet their defensive frailties continue to undermine their progress, with 31 goals conceded — the sixth-worst record in the division.

Away from the Max-Morlock-Stadion, the situation has become increasingly concerning and represents a major source of frustration for head coach Miroslav Klose. His side are currently the league’s poorest travellers, having suffered four consecutive defeats on the road, the most recent a 2-1 setback against Paderborn.

However, in contrast to their Friday hosts, Nürnberg at least have no selection concerns heading into the contest, meaning Klose will have a full-strength squad at his disposal as he looks to finally reverse his team’s troubling away fortunes.