1. FC Union Berlin will take to the field at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei for the final league match of the campaign on Sunday at 15:30 against 1. FC Magdeburg.

The permutations are starting to become clearer for both teams: Union are focused on strengthening their case for promotion with two matches left, while Michael Oenning's team will only be able to rescue their 2.Bundesliga status — at best — with a play-off.

Review: Darmstadt defeat, Magdeburg down at Bochum

Despite results of Paderborn and Hamburg going in their favour, 1. FC Union Berlin slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Darmstadt last Sunday. Sebastian Andersson’s 12^th goal of the season prompted a late Union fight back, but Darmstadt already had a two-goal lead to defend through strikes from Yannick Stark and Mathias Wittek.

Meanwhile, Magdeburg fought hard against Bochum, but went down 2-4. Oenning's players showed spirit a fortnight ago to beat Greuther Fürth despite missing the services of attacking-midfielder Philipp Türpitz. It's a precarious situation for the eastern German club, who must win and hope Ingolstadt, two points above, failed to take maximum points. Magdeburg can no longer catch Sandhausen, who occupy the place above the play-off position.

Record: FCM dominant so far

Magdeburg hold the upper-hand across all 41 matches in various competitions. The reverse fixture in December ended 1-1 with both teams missing opportunities to claim the full three points. That draw was the first meeting in the 2.Bundesliga between the rivals, while in the league, Union last won against FCM in May 2000.

Personnel: Long-term abentees

Fischer confirmed at the pre-match press conference that Fabian Schönheim and Eroll Zejnullahu are the two players definitely ruled out. The rest of the squad has successfully come through the week of training and will be available for selection in the 18-man squad. When asked if Carlos Mane had done enough to return, Fischer said: “The training week was good for Mane. But it’s also been very big for other players. We’ll make a decision over the 18 places in the side.”

Service: Train Info

Follow the latest news about the Berlin trams & about the Berliner S-Bahn.

On Sunday, stadium gates will open earlier at 13:30 so the fans can enjoy a pleasant experience at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.