Grüll Breaks Through: Werder Edges Desperate Union

À Éviter Score Futmetrix: 16/100. Two relegation-haunted sides collided in a six-pointer that remained goalless until the 72nd minute—when Bremen finally found their killer instinct.

Intensity Without Reward: 28 Shots, One Answer

The Weserstadion witnessed relentless intensity that failed to produce early reward. Werder Bremen controlled proceedings with 58% possession and 16 shots, yet lacked the clinical edge. Union Berlin defended with desperation, launching 12 efforts of their own—two on target. The xG gulf told the story: Bremen's 0.95 versus Union's 0.58. One team was clearly superior; the question was whether they'd execute.

Pieper's Wall, Grüll's Moment

Amos Pieper stood as Bremen's defensive colossus (7.9 rating), snuffing out every Union threat with ruthless efficiency. But it was Marco Grüll who shattered the stalemate in the 72nd minute. A precision cross from Yuta Sugawara on the left flank, Grüll's poacher's finish—1-0. The balance shifted irrevocably.

Set-Piece Siege and Defensive Collapse

Eleven corners combined (five for Bremen, six for Union) underscored the stakes of this relegation duel. Bremen's superiority crystallised: 81% pass accuracy, zero offsides, 16 total shots. Union crumbled: 74% pass accuracy, two offside positions, 13 fouls suggesting desperation over discipline. The lead change came late but decisively—Bremen's upset factor was zero; this was the expected outcome of a vastly superior side finally converting their dominance into three points.