FC Augsburg fought for a draw against RB Leipzig in a high-scoring Bundesliga game. For the Saxons it is the next setback in the fight for the Champions League.
RB Leipzig is still not really getting going in the Bundesliga in the new year and is going into the premier class duel with Real Madrid in a weak state. Three days before the first leg of the round of 16 in the Champions League against the Spanish record champions, the Saxons only managed a 2-2 (1-1) draw at FC Augsburg and are in danger of losing touch with the Champions League places in the Bundesliga.
To the live ticker: Augsburg – Leipzig Arrow right 21st matchday Arrow right
For the hosts it is an important point in the relegation battle, although according to coach Jess Thorup even more could have been achieved. “I’m a little disappointed with the draw,” said the Dane on the Sportschau microphone.
Nils Hahn, Sportschau, February 10, 2024 7:37 p.m
Only one win from five games for Leipzig
After just one win from the last five games, RB is three points behind fourth-placed Borussia Dortmund.
On Saturday, Lois Openda (39th minute) and Benjamin Sesko (52nd) turned the game around after Phillip Tietz (35th) went behind. But Ermedin Demirovic (60th) brought FCA back once again, as they consolidated their place in the middle of the table. Openda miserably missed a foul penalty in the 81st minute according to video evidence.
Dahmen saves the point for Augsburg
Against the usual courageous and snappy Augsburg team, Leipzig needed around 15 minutes to get into the game – and things immediately became dangerous. After a corner, Dani Olmo (18′) got a header at the far post, but the Spaniard was denied by Finn Dahmen’s brilliant save.
Daniel Gahn / Marcel Seufert, Sportschau, February 10, 2024 5:38 p.m
Augsburg mostly let the guests advance into their own penalty area and relied on long balls themselves. However, while Leipzig rarely became compelling, FCA used its first phase of pressure to take the lead. Peter Gulasci was only able to fend off a long-range shot from Ruben Vargas and Tietz remained ice cold.
Dream goal from Demirovic to equalize
However, the impression that Augsburg could then take control of the game did not last too long. Openda took the first chance to equalize with a completely free header for Leipzig, who were unsteady at the time, but were able to calm the game down again by the half-time whistle.
There was initially no sign of calm in the second half – also thanks to Sesko’s opening goal. Augsburg was forced to go on the offensive due to the deficit, while Leipzig repeatedly counterattacked. It became dangerous on both sides. Demirovic scored with full force to equalize before Dahmen cleared his opponent Mohamed Simakan in the penalty area. But Openda failed from the point.
Augsburg now against Mainz, Leipzig against Gladbach
Next Saturday (February 17th, 2024) Augsburg will have to play Mainz 05, while Leipzig will host Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday evening.