Debutants Kiel back in 2. Bundesliga, Freiburg close to Champions League
There was plenty at stake for both clubs ahead of kickoff. While Freiburg sensationally sit fourth with only two games left in the season, Holstein Kiel are playing for safety with a playoff place an attainable target.
Julian Schuster had the welcome news of Noah Atubolu’s return from a shoulder injury as the record-breaking goalkeeper played for the first time since matchday 27. Before their home game against third-placed Eintracht Frankfurt, Freiburg had a big chance to take a big step towards a first Champions League qualification.
However, the hosts dominated the match as all the chances fell to them in the first 20 minutes. And, seconds after Freiburg hit the crossbar with their first chance through Matthias Ginter, Kiel took the lead thanks to Shuto Machino’s movement.
The in-form Japanese midfielder sets up Lasse Rosenboom’s second goal of the season. Once again, Freiburg hit the woodwork moments later with Vincenzo Grifo the architect this time around.
Freiburg continued to push for an equalizer, and they did get their reward just before the half-time whistle. Johan Manzambi, who had three direct goal involvements in the last four games, scored from a move that started with a long throw-in.
That was Manzambi’s last action of the game, but his half-time replacement put Freiburg ahead before the hour mark. Lukas Höler heads home Grifo’s cross as the visitors complete the turnaround.
Despite Kiel's best efforts, Freiburg see out the result to stay in fourth place before their final game of the season at home against Eintracht Frankfurt. Bundesliga debutants Kiel will be back to 2. Bundesliga football next season.
