Nurnberg vs Karlsruher Prediction 13.02.2026 | 2. Bundesliga

The Franconians approach Matchday 22 eager to rediscover their cutting edge, currently sitting 10th in the table with 26 points — a tally that suggests survival remains the primary objective rather than an ambitious push up the standings.

Miroslav Klose’s side have endured a frustratingly inconsistent start to 2026, and last weekend’s 2-1 defeat away at Paderborn once again exposed their defensive vulnerabilities. With just two clean sheets recorded all season, their lack of solidity at the back continues to undermine their progress.

Despite recent stumbles on the road, Nurnberg remain a far more reliable and threatening force at the Max-Morlock-Stadion. They have put together a seven-match unbeaten run on home soil, turning their stadium into a difficult venue for visiting sides, and that strong home form represents their clearest pathway toward a potential top-half finish.

However, squad availability presents fresh challenges. Henri Koudossou and Eryk Grzywacz remain sidelined through injury, while 21-year-old midfielder Rafael Lubach is suspended after receiving a straight red card in last weekend’s clash with Paderborn.

Meanwhile, Karlsruher SC travel to Nuremberg sitting just one place and one point above their Friday hosts in ninth position, having established themselves as one of the division’s most resilient sides throughout the winter period.

Under the guidance of Christian Eichner, KSC have proven extremely difficult to break down since the turn of the year, suffering just one defeat in their last five league outings. That run has been built on a disciplined defensive structure, allowing them to grind out valuable results even against promotion contenders.

However, their away record offers less encouragement ahead of the trip to Franconia. Karlsruher have managed to convert only two of their opening 11 2. Bundesliga away fixtures into victories this season. Still, they can draw confidence from the reverse meeting in September, when they edged Nuremberg 2-1.

In terms of availability, centre-back Marcel Beifus has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign due to cartilage damage, while defensive midfielder Nicolai Rapp is struggling with an ankle issue and is unlikely to feature in Friday’s league encounter.