Van der Vaart: “Anything under five goals conceded” would be positive for HSV against Bayern

The man who played two stints with the Hanseatic club from 2005-08 and 2012-15 has doubts about his former side’s resilience.

Hamburger SV returns to the Allianz Arena after more than six years, but Rafael Van der Vaart, sees no chance for the newly promoted team.

“HSV faces a tough task. Anything under five goals conceded would be good in my opinion,” the ex-Netherlands star told ran.de. 

“The first Bundesliga game after promotion was decent. But against St.Pauli, HSV were back to second-division level and now must face Bayern.

“Of course, every game is different, and every team has a tough time against FC Bayern. But it’s not a positive feeling when you didn’t have a chance at home against St.Pauli.

“The Hamburg team should simply enjoy and learn there, play a decent game – and hope that they don’t get beaten,” he explained. 

However, the 42-year-old noted that Bayern Munich are still susceptible to inconsistencies under Vincent Kompany.

“One day they play well, then they struggle again. It’s a bit of a back-and-forth. That should give HSV hope,” Van der Vaart concluded.