Union Berlin snatched a dramatic late victory at Europa-Park-Stadion, with substitute Jeong Woo-Yeong striking deep into stoppage time.
SC Freiburg welcomed Union Berlin in a pivotal Bundesliga clash on March 15, 2026. Freiburg sat 8th, aiming for European contention, while 11th-placed Union sought crucial points to distance themselves from the relegation zone. Both sides entered the match looking for an upturn in form.
The home side started brightly, dominating possession and pushing forward from the kickoff. Freiburg controlled the ball for long stretches, dictating the tempo of the game. Early crosses and probing passes tested the Union Berlin defense.
However, Union’s D. Kohn received a yellow card in the 17th minute for tripping. This early booking underscored the physical nature of the away team's defensive approach. Despite this, Freiburg continued to create opportunities.
Freiburg registered multiple shots, forcing Union goalkeeper Matheo Raab into action. The visiting custodian showed early signs of a strong performance, confidently gathering shots and parrying efforts. The first half remained goalless despite Freiburg's pressure.
At halftime, Freiburg’s manager surely emphasized converting their chances. Union Berlin, meanwhile, would have been content with the clean sheet, looking to maintain their defensive shape and perhaps find a counter-attacking moment.
The second half mirrored the first in intensity, with Freiburg pressing hard for an opener. Changes followed, with Freiburg introducing L. Holer in the 61st minute to add fresh attacking impetus. Union responded shortly after.
Union Berlin made a double substitution in the 64th minute, bringing on I. Ansah and the eventual match-winner, Jeong Woo-Yeong. These tactical adjustments aimed to inject pace and creativity into their infrequent forays forward. Still, Raab remained the busier goalkeeper.
As the clock ticked down, Freiburg continued to bombard the Union goal. However, Raab stood firm, thwarting every attempt. His impressive saves kept Union in the game, frustrating the home crowd and Freiburg attackers alike.
Then, in the 90+2 minute, the unthinkable happened for the home supporters. From a rare Union attack, Stanley N'Soki delivered a crucial assist. Substitute Jeong Woo-Yeong latched onto the pass and fired home, silencing the Europa-Park-Stadion crowd.
The late goal left Freiburg stunned and with no time to respond. Union’s L. Burcu picked up a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct in the 90+3 minute, a testament to the heightened emotions. The final whistle confirmed Union's unlikely triumph.
The statistics painted a clear picture of Freiburg’s misfortune: 73% possession, 19 total shots (6 on target), and an xG of 1.11. Union, with just 27% possession, 9 shots (4 on target), and an xG of 0.54, converted their single genuine chance. Matheo Raab's six saves were instrumental.
This hard-fought 0-1 victory provided Union Berlin with three vital points in their fight for Bundesliga survival, boosting them to 31 points. For SC Freiburg, it was a frustrating outcome, failing to capitalize on their dominance and dropping crucial points in their pursuit of European football.
