bundesliga

Tomáš Čvančara's last-gasp header secures dramatic win for Borussia Moenchengladbach against Union Berlin

28.09.2024

Tomáš Čvančara's 96th-minute header gave Borussia Mönchengladbach a dramatic 1-0 victory over Union Berlin, ending their seven-month winless run at home in the Bundesliga.

Union start strong

The match began with Union Berlin showing more attacking intent, Benedict Hollerbach forcing an early save from Moritz Nicolas. The visitors continued to press, with Hollerbach again coming close in the 11th minute. Gladbach, however, grew into the game, with Philipp Sander firing just over the bar in the 17th minute. The home side's increasing control was evident (61% possession) but both teams created opportunities. Gladbach's Kevin Stöger came close in the 26th minute, while Alassane Pléa's influence grew, yielding a number of chances for his teammates. Union remained dangerous on the counter, their pace causing plenty of problems, but the first half ended goalless.

The second half saw both managers making tactical adjustments. Union's Bo Svensson introduced forward Yorbe Vertessen, while Gladbach's Gerardo Seoane responded by bringing on midfielders Robin Hack and Rocco Reitz. The game became more cagey, with both sides aware of the importance of not conceding. A nil-all draw seemed on the cards until, in the 86th minute, Union's Vertessen hit the post. This galvanised Gladbach, whose push for a winner was rewarded in the dying moments. Substitute Tomáš Čvančara rose highest to meet Robin Hack's cross, powering his header past Frederik Rønnow - in the 96th minute! The goal sent the Borussia-Park faithful into raptures and secured a much-needed home win for Gladbach.

Union's Benedict Hollerbach was at the heart of his side's strong early showing against Gladbach. - Christof Koepsel

Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Gladbach 0.9817 - Union Berlin 0.7341
Fastest player: Nathan Ngoumou (Gladbach), 34.5 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Tomáš Čvančara (Gladbach), 16.74 percent
Most pressed player: Benedict Hollerbach (Union Berlin), 24 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Alassane Pléa (Gladbach), +2.26

Fantasy Heroes: Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach, 324 Points), Nico Elvedi (Borussia Mönchengladbach, 227 Points), Ko Itakura (Borussia Mönchengladbach, 226 Points)