VfL Wolfsburg has been relegated to the Second Bundesliga after 29 years at the highest level. The 2009 national champions lost in the decisive play-off against SC Paderborn after extra time: the score was 2-1, meaning Paderborn returns to the Bundesliga.
Until a few years ago, Wolfsburg was still a stable sub-topper in Germany, with, in addition to the surprising title in 2009, also a fifth place (2014), second place (2015), fourth place (2021). In recent years it has become increasingly difficult That Wolfewhere former Ajax player Christian Eriksen wears the captain’s armband.
Paul Simonis was at the helm at Wolfsburg at the beginning of this season. He was fired after five months. The former coach of Go Ahead Eagles lost seven of his last eight games, but was still fourteenth at that time.
In 2017 and 2018, Wolfsburg already escaped relegation twice by avoiding the play-offs. That didn’t work this time. After last week’s 0-0 draw at home, the return on Monday evening had to be decisive. Paderborn won 2-1.
Paderborn fans joined in the celebration
The home team’s fans went wild with joy and stormed the field. Paderborn is the third PhD candidate, after Schalke 04 and Elversberg. The Wolfsburg players left disillusioned. After 29 years at the highest level, they have to prepare for the Second Bundesliga.
Wolfsburg started the game great: Dzenan Pejcinovic scored the opening goal after just two minutes. But after thirteen minutes Joakim Maehle was sent off. Paderborn equalized in minute 37 through Filip Bilbija.
That was it until extra time. Laurin Curda scored the winning goal in minute 99. He was completely free after a cross from the left and shot the ball against the ropes.
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