New Union Berlin manager Bo Svensson faced his former club Mainz on the opening weekend and led his side to a 1-1 draw against the team with whom he had a fine spell in the early 2020s.

It was another new face at the club that scored the equaliser, as Laszlo Benes scored from a Tim Skarke assist just two minutes after the pair had come off the bench in an inspired double switch from the new boss.

That gives Union the opportunity here to remain unbeaten in the opening two games of a Bundesliga season for the fourth straight year, however, after two wins to start the campaign last season, they went on to lose nine in a row, going from top to bottom in the space of just over two months.

Union eventually recovered despite another late wobble to finish 15th and secure a sixth straight season as a top-flight club.

St Pauli have proved fruitful opponents for Union Berlin when they have met recently, especially here in Kopenick, as they are unbeaten in the last eight meetings on home soil - winning seven.

Against newly-promoted opposition in general, Union have been strong, as Heidenheim last season are the only one of those clubs to have beaten them in the last 11 attempts, while none have ever won here at Alte Forsterei in the top flight.

After 13 years away from the Bundesliga, St Pauli made a disappointing return, losing 2-0 at home to Heidenheim on Sunday.

Despite having more shots, more possession and a higher xG, St Pauli came away with nothing, proving how unforgiving the top flight is if you do not take your chances.

The St Pauli faithful will know that all too well after their most recent Bundesliga season too, as their 2010-11 campaign ended dismally, with just one point from 11 games to finish the season, which unsurprisingly led to their relegation.

One good omen they and new manager Alexander Blessin may be clinging onto ahead of this encounter is that the club has never lost their opening two Bundesliga matches, but it will be a test in the capital.