FC Augsburg pulled off a thrilling 2-1 win over VfL Bochum at the Vonovia Ruhrstadion, clinching the victory with a dramatic 90th-minute goal from Mert Kömür, despite playing the final moments with just ten men.
Finn Dahmen’s heroic goalkeeping played a key role in Augsburg’s determined performance.
The match began at a steady pace, with both sides searching for openings. In the 5th minute, Bochum’s Georgios Masouras had a chance, but his header went wide.
Augsburg struck first in the 16th minute, as Samuel Essende turned quickly in the box and fired a shot that deflected off Bernardo, leaving goalkeeper Timo Horn helpless.
Dahmen was soon called into action, making a string of crucial saves, including a stunning stop from Ibrahima Sissoko. Kristijan Jakić nearly doubled Augsburg’s lead just before the break, but his effort was cleared off the line.
The second half saw Bochum come out with renewed energy. Their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Philipp Hofmann equalized, meeting a cross from Felix Passlack with a powerful header. Dahmen managed to tip the ball onto the crossbar, but it ricocheted off his head and into the net.
This goal reignited Bochum’s hopes, and they began to apply relentless pressure. Hofmann remained a constant threat, forcing Dahmen into another save in the 84th minute.
The match took a pivotal turn in the 81st minute when Augsburg’s Arne Maier was shown a straight red card. After initially receiving a yellow for a challenge on Bernardo, the referee upgraded the decision to a red following a VAR review, deeming the tackle reckless.
With the man advantage, Bochum surged forward, creating a series of chances. However, Augsburg’s defense, led by the outstanding Dahmen, held firm under immense pressure.
Just as it seemed Bochum would steal the win, Augsburg struck in the dying moments. In the 90th minute, Mert Kömür found space in the box after receiving a pass from Phillip Tietz. Kömür composed himself and slotted the ball home from the edge of the box, giving Augsburg an unexpected but well-deserved victory.
The goal stunned the home crowd, while Augsburg’s players and staff erupted in celebration.
Dahmen was undoubtedly the hero of the match for Augsburg. His crucial saves, especially in the second half when Bochum dominated possession, were key to keeping his team in the game. Dahmen’s reflexes, positioning, and leadership in organizing the defense were vital, particularly after Augsburg was reduced to ten men, ensuring they walked away with all three points.
