Union Berlin's Aljoscha Kemlein makes history in victory over Holstein Kiel
Union Berlin secured a 2-0 win away at Holstein Kiel, with Aljoscha Kemlein becoming the first academy graduate to score for Union in the Bundesliga.
Holstein Kiel 0-2 Union Berlin
Goals: 0-1 Kemlein 18' (assist: Rothe), 0-2 Rothe 89' (assist: Bénes)
The Bundesliga fixture between Kiel and Union marked a significant moment for both clubs. For Kiel, it was their first-ever top-flight encounter with Union, as they continued their search for their maiden home points in the top flight. The visitors, on the other hand, entered the match buoyed by their recent victory over Borussia Dortmund before the international break. The visitors were looking to maintain their impressive form, having lost only once in their opening six matches. Union's manager, Bo Svensson, acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, 'It's always tough to start with an away game after an international break. Kiel went into the break with a sense of achievement after the game in Leverkusen. It's going to be a difficult task.'
Kemlein makes history
The match began with Union Berlin showing their intent early on. In the opening minute, Benedict Hollerbach nearly gave the visitors the lead, but his header from Yorbe Vertessen's cross narrowly missed the target. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Kemlein etched his name into Union's history books. The young midfielder met Tom Rothe's inswinging corner with a powerful header, directing the ball into the top right corner beyond the reach of Kiel's goalkeeper, Timon Weiner. This goal was not just the opener of the match, but also a landmark moment for the youngster, as this was his first goal for the club.
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Kiel's response
Kiel, determined to find an equaliser, began to apply pressure on the Union defence. In the 30th minute, they came agonisingly close to levelling the score. A free-kick from the right side caused chaos in the Union box, with goalkeeper Frederik Rønnow failing to claim the high ball. In the ensuing scramble, Armin Gigović managed to get a header on target, but Union's defenders showed their resilience, making a crucial clearance off the line to maintain their lead. As the first half progressed, Union Berlin began to assert their control over the match. Their possession play improved, and they created several opportunities to extend their lead. Christopher Trimmel came close to doubling Union's advantage in the 33rd minute with a powerful shot that struck the side netting, keeping Kiel on their toes.
Second-half intensity
The second half saw an increase in intensity from both sides. Kiel, eager to get back into the game, started brightly with Nicolai Remberg forcing a good save from Rønnow in the 47th minute. The home side continued to press, with Finn Porath coming close in the 54th minute, his curling effort expertly tipped around the post by the Union goalkeeper. As the match progressed, the physicality increased, leading to several yellow cards. Marco Komenda of Kiel was booked in the 66th minute, followed by Union's Rønnow in the 73rd for time-wasting. The increased tension was evident as both teams fought hard for every ball, with Remberg receiving a yellow card in the 79th minute for a tactical foul on Tom Rothe.
Rothe seals the win
As the match entered its final stages, Union looked to put the result beyond doubt. Their persistence paid off in the 89th minute when Rothe, who had earlier provided the assist for Kemlein's opener, got on the scoresheet himself. The young defender timed his run perfectly to meet László Bénes' corner at the near post, guiding a low header past Weiner to make it 2-0. This goal effectively sealed the victory for Union, showcasing their set-piece prowess and clinical finishing. Kiel's last-gasp efforts to salvage something from the match were in vain, with Steven Skrzybski's stoppage-time attempt brilliantly saved by Rønnow, preserving Union's clean sheet and cementing their well-deserved victory.
Player of the Match: Tom Rothe
Rothe's performance was instrumental in Union Berlin's victory. The young left-back showcased his versatility and impact at both ends of the pitch. Rothe's precise cross in the first half set up Kemlein's historic opener, demonstrating his quality in set-piece delivery. He then capped off his excellent display with a well-taken header in the dying minutes of the match, securing the win for his team. Rothe's contribution was not limited to the goals; he was a constant threat down the left flank and solid defensively, helping Union maintain their impressive record of conceding no more than one goal per game this season.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Holstein Kiel 0.91 - Union Berlin 1.46
Fastest player: Marko Ivezić (KSV), 33.85 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Aljoscha Kemlein (FCU), 13 percent
Most pressed player: Yorbe Vertessen (FCU), 21 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Kevin Vogt (FCU), +2.83
Fantasy Heroes: Tom Rothe (1. FC Union Berlin, 454 Points), Aljoscha Kemlein (1. FC Union Berlin, 261 Points), Christopher Trimmel (1. FC Union Berlin, 240 Points)
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