Bremen stun Frankfurt in clinical display | OneFootball

Werder Bremen stun Eintracht Frankfurt in clinical home display

Werder Bremen ended their home losing steak with a 2-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Matchday 28 that could have huge ramifications for the European qualification race.

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Bremen 2-0 FrankfurtGoals: 1-0 Burke 28’ (assist: Schmid), 2-0 Schmid 84’

The Weserstadion was buzzing with anticipation as Bremen hosted Frankfurt in a potentially-crucial Bundesliga clash. Both teams entered the match with European ambitions, but it was Bremen who were desperate to end their recent home woes. They came into the game buoyed by a convincing 3-0 away victory against Holstein Kiel, while Frankfurt, sitting pretty in third place, were looking to cement their Champions League spot. With Frankfurt boss Dino Toppmöller making two changes to his winning side from last week, the stage was set for an intriguing battle.

Marco Friedl of Bremen contests an aerial duel with Hugo Larsson of Frankfurt, showcasing the intense midfield battle (Stuart Franklin)

Burke breaks the deadlock

The match began with Frankfurt asserting their dominance, controlling possession and pushing Bremen back. However, it was the hosts who created the first clear chance. In the 11th minute, Jens Stage rose to meet a corner, but his header went just over the bar. The Eagles continued to dominate possession, but Bremen's defence held firm. In the 25th minute, Stage came close again, his volley from the edge of the box rattling the crossbar after a deflection. Just three minutes later, Bremen struck. Romano Schmid swung in a corner from the left, and Oliver Burke was on hand at the far post to head home, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead against the run of play.

Schmid rifles home Werder Bremen's clincher in the second half. (FABIAN BIMMER)

Bremen's defensive masterclass

The second half saw Frankfurt push hard for an equaliser, but Bremen's defence stood firm. The Eagles' frustration grew as they struggled to create clear-cut chances despite dominating possession. Bremen, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, with Marvin Ducksch missing a golden opportunity to double the lead early in the second half. As the game wore on, tensions rose, with Stage and Ellyes Skhiri both receiving yellow cards. Bremen's resolute defending was epitomised by Felix Agu, who won numerous crucial challenges throughout the match.

Schmid seals the deal

As the match entered its final stages, Frankfurt threw everything at Bremen in search of an equaliser. However, it was the hosts who struck the decisive blow. In the 84th minute, Schmid capped off a brilliant team move. Justin Njinmah received the ball from Mitchell Weiser on the right side of the box but missed his shot. The ball fell to Schmid, who collected it on the left side of the area and rifled it into the far corner with his right foot, making it 2-0. The goal, coming from an xG of just 0.0593, showcased Schmid's clinical finishing and effectively ended Frankfurt's hopes of salvaging something from the game.

Player of the Match: Romano Schmid

Schmid was the standout performer in Bremen's crucial victory. The Austrian midfielder not only scored the decisive second goal but was also at the heart of Bremen's attacking play throughout the match. Schmid's ability to link play, create chances, and provide defensive cover was crucial in nullifying Frankfurt's possession-based game. His assist for Burke's opener and his well-taken strike for the second goal showcased his technical ability and composure under pressure. Schmid's all-round performance epitomised Bremen's efficient and determined display, making him a worthy recipient of the Man of the Match award.

Bundesliga Match FactsxGoals: Bremen 1.19 - Frankfurt 0.76Fastest player: Oliver Burke (Bremen), 35.33 km/hLowest goal probability: 2-0 by Romano Schmid (Bremen), 5.93 percentMost pressed player: Romano Schmid (Bremen), 18 times under pressurePass efficiency: Rasmus Kristensen (Frankfurt), +2.22

Fantasy Heroes: Romano Schmid (Bremen, 325 Points), Felix Agu (Bremen, 257 Points), Arthur Theate (Frankfurt, 244 Points)

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