Tom Bischof rescues point for Hoffenheim in thrilling draw with Freiburg
Hoffenheim and Freiburg had to make do with a share of the points after they traded excellent goals - first from Matthias Ginter and then Tom Bischof - in a hotly contested and entertaining 1-1 draw at PreZero Arena on Matchday 13.
Hoffenheim 1-1 Freiburg
Goals: 0-1 Ginter 68' (assist: Grifo), 1-1 Bischof 73'
The PreZero Arena played host to an enthralling Bundesliga encounter as Hoffenheim and Freiburg battled to a 1-1 draw. Both teams entered the match with recent setbacks in cup competitions, adding extra significance to this league fixture. Hoffenheim, under the guidance of coach Christian Ilzer, were looking to bounce back from three consecutive losses across all competitions as they faced a Freiburg side, led by Julian Schuster, eager to maintain their position in the top six.
First-half stalemate
The opening 45 minutes were characterised by tight marking and tactical discipline from both sides. Hoffenheim's Oliver Baumann made history by surpassing Sepp Maier with a 474th Bundesliga appearance, and he was called into action early. Freiburg's Michael Gregoritsch tested the veteran keeper in the third minute with a low shot, setting the tone for a competitive half.
Hoffenheim responded through Arthur Chaves, whose header from a corner went wide in the 7th minute. The hosts continued to press, with Jacob Bruun Larsen forcing a save from Noah Atubolu in the 32nd minute. Freiburg had their chances too, with Lucas Höler narrowly missing the target in the 51st minute. Despite the lack of goals, the first half showcased the attacking intent of both teams, with Hoffenheim edging the corner count 5-0.
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Goals bring second half to life
The second half saw an increase in intensity and attacking verve from both sides. Freiburg's tactical switch by coach Schuster, bringing on Vincenzo Grifo for Patrick Osterhage on the hour-mark, paid dividends. In the 68th minute, Grifo's precise free-kick found Matthias Ginter, who toe-poked home to give Freiburg the lead.
However, Hoffenheim's response was swift and decisive. Just five minutes later, Tom Bischof showcased his talent with a well-taken equaliser, bringing the home crowd to their feet. The young midfielder started and finished the move that not only levelled the score but also injected new life into the contest. Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages, with Hoffenheim's Mërgim Berisha and Freiburg's Eren Dinkçi both going close, but ultimately had to settle for a point apiece.
Player of the Match: Tom Bischof
Bischof emerged as the standout performer in this closely fought encounter. The young midfielder's equaliser was not just a moment of individual brilliance but a crucial intervention that earned Hoffenheim a valuable point. Bischof's overall performance was impressive, with statistics backing up his influence on the game. He covered the most distance for Hoffenheim (12.7 km), won the most challenges (14), and had the most shots (three) for his team. His energy and creativity in midfield were constant threats to the Freiburg defence, and his goal - a well-placed shot from just inside the box - demonstrated his composure under pressure. At just 18 years old, Bischof's performance suggests a bright future for both himself and Hoffenheim.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Hoffenheim 1.26 - Freiburg 1.43
Fastest player: Jacob Bruun Larsen (Hoffenheim), 34.73 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-1 by Tom Bischof (Hoffenheim), 8.13 percent
Most pressed player: Ritsu Dōan (Freiburg), 26 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Maximilian Eggestein (Freiburg), +2.16
Fantasy Heroes: Tom Bischof (Hoffenheim, 342 Points), Matthias Ginter (Freiburg, 290 Points), Ritsu Dōan (Freiburg, 197 Points)
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