Referee Gerach explains: Why the 2-1 goal stood

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Nur die Raute

·11 January 2026

Referee Gerach explains: Why the 2-1 goal stood

HSV was defeated by SC Freiburg and was particularly frustrated with the circumstances of the winning goal.

Before the native Hamburger Igor Matanovic pushed the ball over the line from a short distance, Freiburg's Johan Manzambi clearly hit his opponent Jordan Torunarigha in the face with his elbow during an aerial duel. Referee Timo Gerach immediately pointed to the center, and video assistant Arne Aarnink had no objections. The goal stood and sealed the fifth consecutive away defeat for HSV.

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Even after the match, the referee stood by his team's decision in the DAZN interview: “I perceive that the striker has the better position for the ball and is also going for the ball. The defender comes from behind. There is some contact, but for me, it is and was all typical football. I don't see the typical 'I go up and look at the opponent and somehow make a striking motion.'”

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Polzin sharply criticizes Gerach

Gerach saw his perception on the field confirmed in the TV images: “That's why it continued for me.” A very idiosyncratic interpretation of the scene, as Manzambi's elbow movement is clearly recognizable. Accordingly, there was great anger at HSV. Coach Merlin Polzin clearly disagreed with the referee: “It is absolutely inexplicable to me. This must be noted at this point – with all the congratulations we extend to Freiburg. It is clear that our player is hit in the face with the elbow. This can be seen from every perspective.”

Midfield engine Nicolai Remberg also expressed his disbelief: “This is incredible, this is madness. How can you not call that?” Gerach, as is well known, provided an explanation. He had already sent Daniel Elfadli to the showers with a second yellow card. The resulting penalty from his foul was converted by Vincenzo Grifo to make it 1-1, initiating the turnaround in favor of Freiburg.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.