Compared to the 2-1 home win against Borussia Dortmund II, MSV started with an unchanged starting eleven.
Early chances, then nothing for a long time
The hosts had their first opportunity of the game with a long-range shot from Maier, which landed safely in the hands of Vincent Müller (2nd). Unterhaching was the team that dominated the game in the early stages and barely allowed MSV to cross the halfway line in the first ten minutes. When the MSV was able to break free, it became very dangerous in front of the Hachinger Tor. Santiago Castaneda was first denied by goalkeeper René Vollath and then shot over the goal (13th). On the second attempt, the Duisburg player was brought down, but the penalty whistle was not blown.
With this first chance, the Duisburg team got into the game and from then on made the game more balanced. However, little happened in front of the gates for a long time. It wasn’t until the 32nd minute that MSV goalkeeper Müller had to parry a shot from Aaron Keller. At the following corner, Manuel Stiefler headed the ball past the goal. On the other hand, Daniel Ginczek narrowly missed making it 1-0 for Duisburg from close range (37′). Both teams neutralized each other again by the break.
Counter-attack goal from Maier for the win
The second half began with a lot more highlights and initially a great chance for Duisburg’s Ahmet Engin, who was unable to direct a low cross at the back post onto the goal (47′). Keller scored for Unterhaching in the 51st minute, but sent his volley over the goal. Shortly afterwards, Tobias Fleckstein prevented the hosts from scoring the lead with a strong tackle against Maurice Krattenmacher (52′). On the other hand, Ginczek shot straight into the arms of Vollath (53′).
After a few quieter minutes, Unterhaching took the lead in the 64th minute. Maier completed a counterattack by the hosts to make it 1-0. The goal gave the team additional confidence, while Duisburg struggled to create chances. Instead, the home team remained more dangerous, but a header from Patrick Hobsch was no problem for Müller (75th). Schommers used all five substitution options in this phase and swapped his attack line once. However, there was no real Duisburg final offensive.
Saturday against Saarbrücken
In the hunt for important points in the relegation battle, MSV continues next Saturday (March 16, 2024/2 p.m.) with a home game against 1. FC Saarbrücken.