Union Berlin and Eintracht Frankfurt opened the 21st round of the Bundesliga with a 1‑1 draw. The game gave Frankfurt’s new head coach Albert Riera a memorable debut, while the capital club struggled all season and was eager to pick up points at home against the league’s ninth‑placed side.
From the start, Frankfurt controlled possession, keeping the ball for long periods but failing to produce clear chances. They cycled the ball down the left flank and pressed on the wings, yet most of their attacks fell short of the penalty area. Union kept a cautious posture, waiting for counter‑attacks, but an early burst of pyrotechnics from the stands caused interruptions that slowed the action. Union’s most significant threat at half‑time came when Kemlein hit a long‑range effort that was neatly saved by Frankfurt’s keeper Kaua Santos.
Defensively, the hosts were disciplined, sending occasional forward runs into the box, but both teams struggled to finish. The first half ended goalless, dominated by Frankfurt’s 70 per cent ball‑possession advantage-though decisive moves remained elusive.
After the break, Frankfurt pressed harder. Their control stayed high and they looked to breach Union’s back line. Seemingly promising chances from Höjlund and Kalimuendo slipped away, with Union holding their ground skillfully. Set‑pieces and distant shots added excitement, yet the score remained level until the 84th minute.
In quick succession, Nathaniel Brown struck an opening goal after a build‑up play, putting Frankfurt ahead. He was briefly treated on the pitch but managed to finish the match, albeit a bit awkwardly. Two minutes later, Oscar Höjlund received a yellow‑red card, forcing Frankfurts midfield to adapt. Union’s Leopold Querfeld seized the opportunity, converting a penalty to equalise.
The draw sees Frankfurt rise to seventh place in the standings, while Union Berlin stays on ninth.
