Germany: Play-offs 1/2
Benteler-Arena
AET
2 - 1
(1 - 1)(1 - 1)
Paderborn
Wolfsburg
F. Bilbija (38), L. Curda (100)
D. Pejcinovic (3), J. Mæhle (14)
By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Hecking questions early red card for Mæhle as Wolfsburg drop out of Bundesliga

Dieter Hecking questioned the early red card shown to Joakim Mæhle after Wolfsburg’s relegation to Paderborn.
Article image
Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images

Despite taking the lead just three minutes into the second leg of their Bundesliga play-off tie against SC Paderborn on Monday night, VfL Wolfsburg were ultimately relegated after a 2-1 extra-time defeat, having played most of the match with 10 men.

Just 14 minutes into the match, Wolfsburg's Joakim Mæhle was sent off after receiving his second yellow card – much to the frustration of his coach, Dieter Hecking, who felt the decision was harsh.

“When it comes to the red card, you have to look at the entire sequence of events. We would have liked the referee to show a bit more feel for the situation. But it’s pointless now – the match is decided. We have to congratulate Paderborn," Hecking said, according to ran.

“The disappointment is huge – for me as well. In the end, like today, it can come down to maybe one moment whether you stay up or get relegated. We’ll let everything sink in for a day or two, and then talk about the future,” added the Wolfsburg coach.

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