Hamburger SV vs Borussia Mönchengladbach Prediction & Betting Tips - Bundesliga, November 6, 2026

🔵⚪ Hamburger SV vs ⚫⚪ Borussia Mönchengladbach

Main Prediction: Hamburger SV to Win
Correct Score: 2-1
Both Teams to Score: Yes
Total Goals: Over 2.5 Goals

Hamburger SV welcome Borussia Mönchengladbach to the Volksparkstadion for a Matchday 9 Bundesliga encounter between two teams looking to move away from the lower end of the table. Hamburg have collected nine points from their opening eight league matches, while Gladbach arrive with four points and occupy the bottom position.

Both sides have shown defensive weaknesses, but their recent performances suggest different trends. Hamburg have experienced an inconsistent run, losing consecutive matches against Paderborn and Eintracht Frankfurt after earlier victories over Stuttgart and Hoffenheim. Gladbach have also struggled, although their recent win over Stuttgart and draw against Paderborn offer some encouragement.

The home advantage, Hamburg's slightly stronger league position and Gladbach's high goals-against total make the hosts marginal favourites. Nevertheless, the visitors possess enough attacking potential to threaten, particularly if Hamburg leave space behind their defensive line.

This prediction is an editorial assessment based on information available before kick-off. It is not a guaranteed result, and expected lineups and availability can change.

1. 🔮 Quick Match Prediction

Hamburger SV have the advantage of playing in front of their home supporters, where they have already recorded two Bundesliga victories this season. Their attacking output has been limited overall, but they have demonstrated an ability to score against opponents when they create space and attack quickly.

Borussia Mönchengladbach have conceded 22 goals in eight league matches. Their defensive record is a major concern, particularly when opponents exploit the spaces between the defensive line and midfield.

The visitors have scored 11 goals, however, and their recent victory against Stuttgart demonstrated that they can create opportunities even during a difficult campaign.

📊 Match prediction summary

🎯 Match Win Probabilities

Home Win: 43%
Draw: 28%
Away Win: 29%

Total: 100%

These percentages are editorial probability estimates, not bookmaker odds or guarantees.

🔍 Why Hamburger SV are favourites

• 🏠 Hamburg have the home advantage.

• 📊 Hamburg have five more league points than Gladbach.

• 🛡️ Gladbach have conceded 22 goals in eight league matches.

• ⚽ Gladbach have conceded at least two goals in several recent league fixtures.

• 🔥 Both teams have demonstrated the ability to score, making a 2-1 result plausible.

The main concern for Hamburg is their own defensive record. They have conceded 19 goals in eight league matches, so a clean sheet should not be assumed.

2. 🏟️ Match Information

🏟️ Venue Analysis

The Volksparkstadion is one of Germany's established football venues and provides Hamburg with a significant home atmosphere.

Hamburg will want to use the energy of their supporters to establish early control. Their best approach may be to press aggressively in selected moments rather than committing too many players forward continuously.

Gladbach must remain organised during the opening stages. An early Hamburg goal could force the visitors to abandon their preferred defensive structure and create additional spaces for the home side.

3. 📊 League Standings and Season Comparison

The following table reflects the Bundesliga standings after eight completed league matches, before this fixture.

⚽ Attacking Comparison

Gladbach have scored four more goals than Hamburg despite having the same number of matches played.

Their average of 1.38 goals per match is considerably higher than Hamburg's 0.88. This suggests that Gladbach may be more dangerous when they can move the ball into attacking areas.

However, scoring goals has not been enough to compensate for their defensive problems.

Hamburg need to improve their efficiency in front of goal. Their recent victories over Stuttgart and Hoffenheim show that they can produce decisive attacking moments, but their overall season average remains low.

🛡️ Defensive Comparison

Both teams have serious defensive issues.

Hamburg have conceded 19 goals, while Gladbach have allowed 22. Their respective averages of 2.38 and 2.75 goals conceded per match are among the most concerning figures in the league.

Gladbach's defensive organisation is particularly vulnerable when opponents attack quickly through the central channels.

Hamburg also need to avoid losing possession in dangerous positions. Their defensive line has struggled when opponents transition quickly from midfield into attack.

📈 Overall Season Assessment

Hamburg have the stronger overall league position, but neither team has demonstrated consistent defensive reliability.

4. 📈 Home Team Recent Form and Performance – Hamburger SV

Hamburger SV enter this fixture after a difficult sequence that has included defeats in both Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal competition.

Their latest league match ended in a 3-1 defeat away to Eintracht Frankfurt. They also lost 3-1 to the same opponent in the DFB-Pokal, meaning the team must respond after two consecutive disappointing results against Frankfurt.

Earlier victories over Stuttgart and Hoffenheim demonstrate that Hamburg remain capable of competing effectively.

📋 Recent Results

📊 Last Five Competitive Matches

• Wins: 2

• Draws: 0

• Losses: 3

• Goals Scored: 6

• Goals Conceded: 9

The last five competitive matches reveal inconsistency. Hamburg have scored in four of these five games but have conceded nine goals.

For league-form comparison, the cup defeat should be separated from Bundesliga results. Hamburg's latest five league fixtures include their 2-1 victory over Köln on 19 September.

🏠 Home Record

Hamburg's Bundesliga home record after eight league matches:

Their home victories over Köln and Stuttgart are encouraging. They have shown that they can defend a narrow advantage when their midfield remains compact.

⚽ Attacking Performance

Hamburg's attacking game relies on quick forward movement, wing-back involvement and combinations between the attacking players.

The expected presence of Terem Moffi and Daka offers pace and physical presence in the final third.

Hamburg must improve the quality of their final pass. Their season average of fewer than one goal per match demonstrates why converting chances will be crucial.

🛡️ Defensive Performance

Hamburg have conceded 19 goals in eight league matches.

This is a major weakness that Gladbach can attempt to exploit through quick transitions and direct passes into the attacking channels.

The absence of several players also creates selection challenges for Merlin Polzin. Defensive communication and midfield protection will be particularly important.

🧠 Tactical Outlook

Hamburg are likely to use a back-three structure with wing-backs providing width.

The home side should attempt to:

1. Build attacks through the central midfield.

2. Use the wing-backs to stretch Gladbach's defensive shape.

3. Press when Gladbach attempt to play out from the back.

4. Deliver early passes towards the forwards.

5. Avoid leaving large spaces behind the wing-backs.

If Hamburg control the midfield and maintain defensive discipline, they have a realistic opportunity to secure all three points.

5. 📈 Away Team Recent Form and Performance – Borussia Mönchengladbach

Borussia Mönchengladbach travel to Hamburg in 18th position after collecting only four points from their opening eight Bundesliga matches.

Their league campaign has been disappointing, with six defeats and only one victory.

There are nevertheless signs of improvement. Gladbach defeated Stuttgart away from home and also secured a DFB-Pokal victory against Karlsruhe before drawing 0-0 with Paderborn.

The challenge is turning occasional positive performances into consistent league results.

📋 Recent Results

📊 Last Five Competitive Matches

• Wins: 2

• Draws: 1

• Losses: 2

• Goals Scored: 7

• Goals Conceded: 6

Their last five competitive results are more encouraging than their overall league position suggests. However, the DFB-Pokal results should not be confused with Bundesliga statistics.

✈️ Away Record

Gladbach's Bundesliga away record after eight matches:

The away defensive record is a major concern.

Gladbach have conceded 12 goals in four away league matches, an average of three goals per game.

This creates an opportunity for Hamburg, especially if the home side can attack quickly after winning possession.

⚽ Attacking Performance

Gladbach have scored 11 league goals, giving them a better attacking average than Hamburg.

Their attacking approach can involve:

• Direct forward passes.

• Quick combinations between the attacking midfielders.

• Movement from wide players into central areas.

• Exploiting spaces behind opposing wing-backs.

• Creating opportunities through second balls.

The availability of key attacking players will be important, particularly with Tim Kleindienst listed as doubtful.

🛡️ Defensive Performance

Gladbach have conceded 22 goals in eight league matches.

Their defensive problems are not limited to one position. The team has struggled to maintain compact distances between the back line and midfield, allowing opponents to attack dangerous spaces.

Their away record is particularly worrying, and Hamburg may look to exploit this weakness with quick combinations around the penalty area.

🧠 Tactical Outlook

Gladbach are expected to use a 3-4-2-1 formation.

Their wing-backs will need to balance attacking support with defensive responsibility.

The visitors should avoid an overly aggressive approach because Hamburg have the speed to exploit open spaces.

A compact midfield and controlled transitions could give Gladbach a chance to take something from the match.

6. 🤝 Head-to-Head Record

The recent meetings between Hamburger SV and Borussia Mönchengladbach have been competitive, with the two most recent Bundesliga encounters ending in goalless draws.

📋 Last Five Verified Meetings

📊 Recent Head-to-Head Summary

🤝 Historical Observations

The two most recent encounters ended 0-0, showing that these teams have previously produced cautious and tightly contested matches.

However, older meetings included more open football, with Hamburg winning 2-1 on two occasions.

Historical results provide useful context, but the current season's defensive statistics are more relevant to this prediction.

🏟️ Hamburg Home-Venue History

Hamburg have won two of the last three listed home meetings against Gladbach.

The most recent home meeting, played in January 2026, ended 0-0.

The home record offers encouragement, but it does not guarantee another Hamburg victory.

7. 🩺 Home Team News and Key Players – Hamburger SV

Hamburg have several important absences and doubtful players ahead of this fixture.

🩺 Injury and Availability Report

Availability information may change before kick-off. The final team sheet should be checked before publication of any confirmed lineup.

⭐ Key Players

⭐ Terem Moffi – Forward

Moffi offers physical strength, movement and the ability to attack space behind defenders.

His role will be important against a Gladbach defence that has conceded frequently this season.

⭐ Daka – Forward

Daka can provide pace and direct running in the attacking line.

His movement could create problems for Gladbach's outside centre-backs, especially when Hamburg attack quickly.

⭐ Albert Grønbæk – Attacking Midfielder

Grønbæk can connect midfield possession with forward movement.

His ability to receive between the lines and deliver passes into the penalty area may be important.

⭐ Albert Sambi Lokonga – Midfielder

Lokonga's midfield responsibilities include ball circulation, positional discipline and protecting the defensive line.

His performance could determine whether Hamburg control the central areas.

⭐ Daniel Heuer Fernandes – Goalkeeper

Heuer Fernandes will need to provide reliable goalkeeping and organisation.

With Hamburg conceding regularly, his communication and shot-stopping could prove decisive.

🔍 Impact of the Absences

The absence of Remberg reduces Hamburg's midfield options, while Vieira's unavailability limits alternative attacking creativity.

Capaldo and Poulsen remain important availability questions.

Hamburg need to maintain balance rather than relying entirely on attacking numbers. Their defensive record suggests that pushing too many players forward could be dangerous.

8. 🩺 Away Team News and Key Players – Borussia Mönchengladbach

Gladbach also have several injury concerns, with multiple players listed as unavailable or doubtful.

🩺 Injury and Availability Report

The doubtful players should not be treated as confirmed absentees. Their participation depends on the final medical and selection decisions.

⭐ Key Players

⭐ Robin Hack – Attacking Player

Hack can provide movement, creativity and attacking support behind the central striker.

He may be important when Gladbach attempt to exploit the spaces between Hamburg's midfield and defence.

⭐ Wael Mohya – Attacking Midfielder

Mohya offers movement and attacking support from advanced areas.

His ability to receive possession in tight spaces could help Gladbach create opportunities.

⭐ Florian Neuhaus – Midfielder

Neuhaus can contribute to possession and forward passing.

Gladbach will need his ability to connect defensive and attacking phases if they are to control the midfield.

⭐ Joe Scally – Wide Player

Scally's contribution from the flank can provide width and defensive recovery.

His positioning will be particularly important against Hamburg's wing-backs.

⭐ Isac Lidberg – Forward

Lidberg is expected to lead the attacking line if selected.

He will need to hold up the ball, make forward runs and provide a target for Gladbach's attacking midfielders.

⭐ Daniel Batz – Goalkeeper

Batz is expected to feature in the predicted lineup.

He could face significant pressure because Hamburg are likely to target the spaces around the Gladbach penalty area.

🔍 Impact of the Absences

The possible absence of Kleindienst and Honorat would reduce Gladbach's attacking options and experience.

The defensive unit must also cope with Hamburg's forward movement without giving away space between the lines.

Gladbach's selection decisions could have a major impact on the final match prediction.

9. 🧠 Expected Lineups and Tactical Formations

The following lineups are predictions based on available team information. They are not confirmed starting XIs.

🔵⚪ Hamburger SV – Expected Formation: 3-4-2-1

Possible tactical alternative: Hamburg could use a more advanced second striker or adjust the attacking structure depending on the availability of Daka and Poulsen.

🔵⚪ Hamburg Tactical Diagram

                 TEREM MOFFI

       MARTIN ADELINE     ALBERT GRØNBÆK

DAVID MØLLER WOLFE             ZAKARIA EL OUAHDI

          MIRO MUHEIM   SAMBI LOKONGA

     TORUNARIGHA   BORN AUW   OMARI

             HEUER FERNANDES

⚫⚪ Borussia Mönchengladbach – Expected Formation: 3-4-2-1

⚫⚪ Gladbach Tactical Diagram

                 ISAC LIDBERG

          WAEL MOHYA     ROBIN HACK

LUKAS ULLRICH                  JOSEPH SCALLY

           FLORIAN NEUHAUS   ZENTO UNO

      FABIO CHIARODIA  SANDER  ITAKURA

                  DANIEL BATZ

🧠 Formation Comparison

Both sides are expected to use similar formations. This could create an interesting battle between the wing-backs and the attacking midfielders.

10. ⚔️ Detailed Tactical Analysis

1. ⚽ Hamburg's Use of the Wing-Backs

Hamburg are likely to use their wing-backs to provide width and stretch Gladbach's defensive structure.

If the visitors defend too narrowly, Hamburg may find space on the outside.

However, the home side must avoid leaving their centre-backs exposed when the wing-backs advance.

2. 🛡️ Gladbach's Defensive Organisation

Gladbach's 22 goals conceded in eight league matches highlight their defensive vulnerability.

The visitors must reduce the space between their defensive and midfield lines.

If Hamburg receive the ball comfortably between these lines, they could create dangerous shooting opportunities.

3. 🧠 The Midfield Battle

Lokonga and Muheim are expected to play important roles in Hamburg's midfield.

Neuhaus and Uno will need to disrupt their passing combinations.

The team that controls second balls and wins possession in central areas could gain a major advantage.

4. ⚡ Counterattacking Opportunities

Both teams have demonstrated defensive problems when opponents attack quickly.

Gladbach could use Hack and Mohya to exploit spaces behind Hamburg's advancing wing-backs.

Hamburg can respond with direct forward passes towards Moffi and their supporting attackers.

5. 🎯 Finishing Efficiency

Hamburg's average of 0.88 goals per league match shows that their attacking efficiency needs improvement.

They may create opportunities against Gladbach, but converting them is another challenge.

A goal from an early high-quality chance could change the entire tactical pattern.

6. 🛡️ Defensive Transitions

Hamburg have conceded 19 goals, while Gladbach have conceded 22.

Both teams must be careful when losing possession.

A poorly organised transition could quickly become a dangerous attacking opportunity for the opposition.

7. 🏟️ Home Advantage

The Volksparkstadion atmosphere could help Hamburg establish an aggressive start.

The home side should use this advantage without becoming impatient if the opening stages remain goalless.

8. 🩺 Squad Availability

Both teams have important injury concerns.

The possible absence of Kleindienst and Honorat could reduce Gladbach's attacking depth, while Hamburg must cope with several unavailable midfield and attacking options.

Substitutions may become particularly important in the final half-hour.

9. ⏱️ Second-Half Match Management

Both teams have conceded regularly, making concentration late in the match essential.

If Hamburg lead, they should avoid dropping too deeply and inviting pressure.

Gladbach may need to take additional risks if they are behind, potentially creating more space for Hamburg's counterattacks.

11. 🎯 Betting Tips with Detailed Explanations

The following selections are analytical predictions, not guarantees. Each selection should be assessed against the available odds and the final confirmed lineups.

🎯 1. Match Winner – Hamburger SV

Prediction: Hamburger SV to Win

Hamburg have the home advantage and five more league points than Gladbach.

Their opponents have conceded 22 goals in eight Bundesliga matches, including 12 in four away games.

Hamburg's defensive weaknesses make this selection far from certain, but the home side have the stronger overall position and a favourable venue.

Assessment: Moderate risk.

🎯 2. Both Teams to Score – Yes

Prediction: Yes

Both teams have defensive problems.

Hamburg have conceded 19 league goals, while Gladbach have conceded 22.

Gladbach's average of 1.38 goals scored per match also indicates that they can create attacking opportunities.

The combination of weak defensive records makes both teams scoring a reasonable selection.

Assessment: Moderate risk.

🎯 3. Over/Under Goals – Over 2.5

Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals

Hamburg and Gladbach have conceded a combined 41 goals across their first eight league matches each.

Their defensive records suggest that scoring opportunities could be available.

The 2-1 predicted result supports the Over 2.5 selection, although the recent goalless head-to-head meetings are a reason for caution.

Assessment: Moderate risk.

🎯 4. Double Chance – Hamburger SV or Draw (1X)

Prediction: 1X

This is a more cautious alternative to selecting a straight Hamburg victory.

Hamburg have the home advantage and a stronger league position.

Gladbach's poor away defensive record also makes it difficult to confidently favour the visitors.

Assessment: Lower risk than the home-win selection, but not guaranteed.

🎯 5. Correct Score – 2-1

Prediction: Hamburger SV 2-1 Borussia Mönchengladbach

The predicted score reflects Hamburg's home advantage and Gladbach's defensive weaknesses.

The visitors have enough attacking potential to score, but Hamburg are expected to create more decisive opportunities.

Correct-score selections are inherently high risk and should not be treated as a safe betting option.

Assessment: High risk.

📊 Betting Selection Summary

12. ⏱️ First-Half and Second-Half Predictions

⏱️ First-Half Analysis

Hamburg may begin with an aggressive approach, but Gladbach are likely to prioritise defensive organisation during the opening stages.

The two teams have enough reason to avoid unnecessary risks early in the match.

Hamburg's attacking efficiency has been inconsistent, so an immediate goal should not be assumed.

First-Half Prediction: Draw
Half-Time Score: 0-0

⚽ Second-Half Analysis

The second half could provide more space as both teams attempt to secure three points.

Hamburg may increase their attacking pressure, particularly through the wing-backs and advanced midfielders.

Gladbach could respond with quick counterattacks, making the second half potentially more open.

Second-Half Prediction: Hamburger SV to score more
Predicted Second-Half Score: 2-1

📊 Half-by-Half Summary

The score prediction assumes that the match remains relatively cautious early before opening up after the interval.

13. 📌 Key Factors That Could Decide the Match

1. 🏠 Hamburg's Home Advantage

Hamburg have won two of their first three home league matches. The support at the Volksparkstadion could help them establish attacking momentum.

2. 🛡️ Gladbach's Defensive Record

Conceding 22 goals in eight matches is a significant concern. Hamburg should target the spaces around the visitors' defensive line.

3. ⚽ Hamburg's Finishing

Hamburg have scored only seven league goals. Their ability to convert chances will be essential.

4. 🔥 Gladbach's Attacking Potential

Despite their position, Gladbach have scored 11 league goals. Hamburg cannot afford to focus exclusively on attacking.

5. 🧠 Midfield Control

The battle between Lokonga and Muheim against Neuhaus and Uno could determine which team controls possession and creates the better opportunities.

6. 🩺 Injury Situation

The availability of Capaldo, Poulsen, Honorat and Kleindienst could influence the tactical options available to both managers.

7. ⚡ Counterattacking Threat

Both teams have conceded during transitions. The side that protects its defensive structure after losing possession will have an advantage.

8. 🎯 Set Pieces

Set pieces could be important in a match where both teams may find it difficult to create clear chances from open play.

9. ⏱️ Late-Match Concentration

Both teams have struggled defensively. Maintaining concentration during the final stages could decide whether Hamburg secure the win or Gladbach find an equaliser.

14. 🏁 Final Match Prediction

Hamburger SV and Borussia Mönchengladbach enter this Bundesliga fixture under pressure to improve their league positions.

Hamburg have the advantage of playing at home and have collected five more points than their opponents. Their victories over Stuttgart and Hoffenheim demonstrate that they can compete effectively, although consecutive defeats against Frankfurt and Paderborn highlight their inconsistency.

Gladbach's season has been more difficult. Their four points from eight matches and 22 goals conceded underline the scale of their problems. However, their victory over Stuttgart and their attacking average of 1.38 goals per match suggest that they should not be underestimated.

The central question is whether Hamburg can exploit Gladbach's defensive weaknesses without exposing their own back line.

Hamburg's wing-backs and attacking midfielders could create opportunities against a defence that has struggled to remain compact. Gladbach may still threaten through quick transitions and forward movement.

The two most recent head-to-head meetings ended 0-0, so a cautious start is possible. However, the current defensive records of both teams suggest that this fixture could produce more goals than those previous encounters.

Hamburg are the preferred selection because of their home advantage, stronger league position and Gladbach's poor away defensive record.

The predicted outcome is a competitive match in which both teams score, but Hamburg produce enough attacking quality to secure a narrow victory.

🏁 Official LincBet Final Prediction

Final Prediction: Hamburger SV 2-1 Borussia Mönchengladbach

Best Match Prediction: Hamburger SV to Win

Both Teams to Score: Yes

Total Goals: Over 2.5 Goals

Alternative Goals Prediction: Over 1.5 Goals

Double Chance: Hamburger SV or Draw (1X)

Prediction Confidence: Medium-Low

🔮 Final Probability Assessment

15. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is predicted to win Hamburger SV vs Borussia Mönchengladbach?

Hamburger SV are the predicted winners because they have home advantage, a stronger league position and face a Gladbach side with a poor defensive record.

2. What is the predicted score?

The predicted score is Hamburger SV 2-1 Borussia Mönchengladbach.

3. Will both teams score?

Yes. Both teams have defensive weaknesses, while Gladbach have scored more league goals than Hamburg this season.

4. Is Over 2.5 Goals a good prediction?

Over 2.5 Goals is a reasonable prediction based on the teams' defensive records. However, their two most recent head-to-head matches ended 0-0, which introduces some uncertainty.

5. What are the match-winning probabilities?

The editorial estimates are:

• Hamburger SV Win: 43%

• Draw: 28%

• Borussia Mönchengladbach Win: 29%

The total is exactly 100%.

6. Where will the match be played?

The match will take place at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Germany.

7. When will the match take place?

The match is scheduled for Friday, 6 November 2026.

8. What time does the match start?

Kick-off is scheduled for 20:30 local time in Germany.

9. Which competition is the match part of?

The fixture is part of the German Bundesliga 2026/27 season, Matchday 9.

10. What is Hamburger SV's league position?

Hamburger SV are 15th after eight league matches, with three wins, no draws and five defeats, giving them nine points.

11. What is Borussia Mönchengladbach's league position?

Borussia Mönchengladbach are 18th after eight matches, with one win, one draw and six defeats, giving them four points.

12. Which team has scored more league goals?

Borussia Mönchengladbach have scored 11 goals, compared with Hamburg's seven.

13. Which team has conceded more goals?

Borussia Mönchengladbach have conceded 22 goals, while Hamburg have conceded 19.

14. What happened in the previous meeting?

The previous Bundesliga meeting between the teams took place on 17 January 2026 and ended 0-0 at the Volksparkstadion.

15. What is the recent head-to-head record?

Across the five most recent listed meetings, Hamburg have two wins, Gladbach have one win and two matches ended in draws.

16. Which Hamburger SV players could miss the match?

Reported unavailable players include Bilal Nadir, Nicolai Remberg and Fábio Vieira. Mario Vušković is also listed as unavailable through suspension. Nicolás Capaldo and Yussuf Poulsen are doubtful.

17. Which Borussia Mönchengladbach players could miss the match?

Reported unavailable players include Hugo Bolin, Nikolas-Gerrit Kühn, Enzo Leopold and Jan Leszczyński. Kevin Diks, Fritz Fleck, Franck Honorat, Tim Kleindienst and Moritz Nicolas are listed as doubtful.

18. Who are the key players for Hamburger SV?

Terem Moffi, Daka, Albert Grønbæk, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Daniel Heuer Fernandes are among the important players to watch.

19. Who are the key players for Borussia Mönchengladbach?

Robin Hack, Wael Mohya, Florian Neuhaus, Joseph Scally and Isac Lidberg could play important roles.

20. What is the safest relative betting selection?

Hamburger SV or Draw (1X) is a more cautious selection than backing Hamburg to win outright. However, no betting selection is guaranteed, and the final lineups should be checked before making a decision.