Two failures by goalkeeper Oliver Baumann have set TSG Hoffenheim far back in the race for a place in the premier class. After four consecutive wins, the Kraichgauer lost to VfL Wolfsburg 1:4 (1:1) on the 31st matchday of the Bundesliga despite a lead. The wolves are again in the middle of the European Cup fight after the victory.
The previously strong Baumann first let a harmless header of Dutchman Wout Weghorst slide through his arms (69.). Also in Maximilian Arnold’s third goal from a sharp angle (85th) the keeper did not look good.
In addition, Brazilian William (41st) and Weghorst (88th) were successful for Wolfsburg. It was the first VfL victory in Sinsheim in six and a half years.
The Hungarian Adam Szalai (9.) met for Hoffenheim. Due to the defeat, the TSG, who finished third last season, are four points behind the Champions League places.
“We have to win all four outstanding games to still have a chance in the Champions League. I am convinced that we will be able to do this,” outgoing TSG coach Julian Nagelsmann said before his penultimate home match.
The 27,725 spectators in the Sinsheim Arena were immediately offered something. After a warning shot of the Hoffenheim national player Nico Schulz (1.) the guests had two good possibilities.
First Baumann held against Admir Mehmedi (2.), then he directed a shot from Felix Klaus to the crossbar (4.). On the other side, Ishak Belfodil caused danger twice (5th and 7th).
Two minutes later, after the Kraichgauer’s grandiose move across the entire field, the lead was perfect for the TSG. Szalai completed the preparatory work of Andrej Kramaric and Schulz.
The Hoffenheimers, who had to manage without the suspended Kerem Demirbay as well as Benjamin Hübner, Dennis Geiger, Robin Hack and Joelinton, remained on the accelerator even after the lead. In the 13th minute, Belfodil hit the bar. Then there was a penalty for the hosts after video evidence, but Kramaric put it on the post (15th).
