Backhaus stars as Werder grab crucial points in relegation six-pointer
| Werder Bremen celebrate Justin Njinmah’a goal vs. Wolfsburg - 21 Mar 2026 | Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images |
In a contest that could easily have gone the other way, Werder had goalkeeper Mio Backhaus to thank for keeping them in it. The shot-stopper delivered a string of outstanding saves to preserve a clean sheet before Njinmah’s decisive moment lifted Daniel Thioune’s side seven points clear of the automatic drop zone.
Wolfsburg made the brighter start, dominating possession and looking to attack with pace and directness, fully aware that three points were essential. Despite that, it was Werder who fashioned the first clear opportunity, only for Kamil Grabara to produce an excellent save from Cameron Puertas’ free-kick on the edge of the area.
The hosts soon responded. Jonas Wind rose highest from a corner, but Backhaus was equal to it, producing a superb low save that set the tone for his afternoon. The Werder keeper continued to frustrate Wolfsburg, first denying Christian Eriksen from a free-kick before making a brilliant fingertip stop to push Jesper Lindstrøm’s effort onto the crossbar in stoppage time, ensuring the sides went in level at the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Wolfsburg pressing and Backhaus repeatedly called into action. Just four minutes after the restart, Joakim Mæhle’s low drive forced another strong save from the Bremen number one.
Mohamed Amoura then squandered a golden opportunity on the hour mark, dragging his effort wide from a tight angle - a miss that proved costly. Seven minutes later, Werder struck against the run of play. Felix Agu broke down the right and cut the ball back for Justin Njinmah, who guided a precise, curling finish into the corner beyond the helpless Grabara.
Wolfsburg pushed for a response but found Werder’s defence resolute, with Backhaus continuing to inspire those in front of him. Their task became even harder late on when Moritz Jenz was shown a second yellow card, reducing the hosts to ten men.
From there, Werder saw the game out professionally to secure a priceless three points - while Wolfsburg are left staring deeper into trouble, now six points adrift of safety.
