1. FC Union Berlin secured their first win since the return of the Bundesliga this afternoon as Die Eisernen saw off mid-table opponents 1. FC Köln.
The weekend before yielded just a solitary point despite a dominant display against FC Schalke 04, but this time around they got their just rewards with a first league win in ten games.
What Union Berlin’s Victory Means for Survival
Victory on the Road
One thing that’s been noticeable since the restart has been that the Stadion An der Alter Försterei hasn’t been so much of a fortress without fans. The win on the road highlights how the home advantage is something that has been lost.
For Union, this was their fourth away victory this season, with two coming just before lockdown following a slow start on their travels.
Like the match against Schalke, Union were on top for the most part. They may have had less possession – they did last weekend also – but they were more clinical with their shots on goal this time around.
Goals from Marvin Freidrich and Christian Gentner in each half put Die Eisernen in a comfortable position before Jhon Córdoba scored a consolation in second-half stoppage time.
Clear of the Bottom Clubs
After the game, Union Berlin found themselves on 35 points, seven clear of Fortuna Dusseldorf, who occupied the final relegation spot. However, following a rare win from strugglers Werder Bremen, they are now level on points with Dusseldorf.
If Union pick up points their next match at home against bottom club and already-relegated SC Paderborn 07, their Bundesliga safety is assured. The club then travel to TSG 1899 Hoffenheim before ending the season at home against Dusseldorf.
Maiden Bundesliga Season
For Union Berlin, it has been a successful debut season in the Bundesliga. The division’s smallest club and newest top-flight debutants have put up quite the fight.
A win over Borussia Dortmund on Matchday Three gave home fans something to cheer, along with victory at home in the first-ever Bundesliga Berlin Derby.
Naturally, it’s not been plain sailing, but supporters will be delighted that they have practically secured their Bundesliga status with three games still remaining.
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