Baku's strike seals Wolfsburg's first home win of the season
Ridle Baku's second-half goal proved decisive as Wolfsburg won 1-0 against Union Berlin, securing a first home win of the season for Ralph Hasenhüttl's side.
Wolfsburg 1-0 Union
Goals: 1-0 Baku 71’ (assist: Dárdai)
Wolfsburg entered the match seeking their first home win of the season, while Union Berlin aimed to improve their position in the Bundesliga table. Both teams were eager to secure a positive result at the Volkswagen Arena, with the hosts looking to build on their recent performances and the visitors hoping to bounce back from their recent challenges.
First half stalemate
The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Wolfsburg dominated possession, but found it difficult to break down Union's compact and well-organised defence. The away side's strategy appeared to be based on long balls and quick counter-attacks, but they too struggled to threaten Kamil Grabara's goal. The visitors suffered an early setback when Diogo Leite was forced off due to injury in the 9th minute, replaced by Leopold Querfeld. The physical nature of the contest was evident, with Patrick Wimmer receiving a yellow card for Wolfsburg and Kevin Vogt being cautioned for Union just before the break.
Want more Bundesliga Action?
Baku breaks the deadlock
The second half saw a shift in momentum as Union adopted a more attacking approach. Both teams made tactical changes, with Wolfsburg bringing on Lukas Nmecha and Jonas Wind in the 63rd minute, while Union introduced Benedict Hollerbach and Tom Rothe at half-time. Union created better chances, with Aljoscha Kemlein coming close with a curling effort that just missed the target. Jordan also forced a fine save from Grabara with a clever volley. However, it was Wolfsburg who finally broke the deadlock in the 71st minute. Ridle Baku received the ball on the edge of the box and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that found the bottom corner, giving the hosts a crucial 1-0 lead. Union pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Wolfsburg's defence held firm to secure their first home victory of the season.
Player of the Match: Ridle Baku
Ridle Baku's match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade. In a game where clear-cut chances were at a premium, Baku's ability to seize the moment and score the decisive goal set him apart. His strike, coming from the edge of the box, demonstrated both skill and composure. Beyond the goal, Baku was a constant threat for Wolfsburg, recording the most shots on target for his team and winning crucial challenges throughout the match. His goal not only secured three points for Wolfsburg but also their first home win of the season, making his contribution even more significant.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Wolfsburg 1.06 - Union Berlin 0.82
Fastest player: Benedict Hollerbach (Union), 34.4 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Ridle Baku (Wolfsburg), 28.76 percent
Most pressed player: Ridle Baku (Wolfsburg), 19 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Joakim Mæhle (Wolfsburg), +3.09
Related news
Who is Ridle Baku?
Learn about the player hauled off the reserve team bus to help the first team in a crisis - and now rewarded by Germany.
The Bundesliga's best XI not at UEFA Euro 2020
When combined, they make up a team that surely would be capable of going all the way this summer...
Bundesliga top scorer's race
Kane leads the way so far this campaign, but there is a wealth of attacking talents ready hot in pursuit...