On a dramatic final day of the last Bundesliga season, these two sides were separated by just a single point, as Leipzig clinched UEFA Champions League qualification. Die Roten Bullen also eliminated Union from the DFB-Pokal in the semi-finals, so they’ve provided the hosts with a fair amount of torment in recent times. On this occasion, Domenico Tedesco’s men were controlling possession and were inches away from taking the lead when Benjamin Henrichs found Timo Werner in-behind, but the former Chelsea forward’s chip struck the post.
Union’s success last term largely relied on the goals of Taiwo Awoniyi. With the Nigeria international now departed for Nottingham Forest, replacing his firepower would be crucial. New arrival Jordan Siebatcheu had scored twice in his first three appearances and was on target again before the break. Slotted in by Sheraldo Becker, the American showed terrific composure to finish past Péter Gulácsi.
Union struck again before the break, as yet another quick transition out of defence caught Leipzig cold. Becker found space on the right before cutting inside the backtracking Joško Gvardiol and finishing with aplomb. Tedesco’s side would now have to mount a second-half comeback, but Die Eisernen are well renowned for their defensive solidity, with only Leipzig and Bayern Munich conceding fewer goals last season. Dani Olmo looked to have reduced the arrears, but the Spaniard’s effort was cleared off the line by Julian Ryerson.
Leipzig found a route back into the game in the 83rd minute. David Raum’s corner was met by Willi Orbán who rose highest to head beyond Frederik Rønnow. The pressure mounted, but Urs Fischer’s men held firm for a crucial victory that temporarily sends them top of the Bundesliga table. Meanwhile, Die Roten Bullen have lost their first four games of a season for the first time ever, and are on a run of just four wins from their last 16 road trips in the league.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Sheraldo Becker (Union Berlin)
