FCA pick up a point in Berlin
Dahmen saves a penalty
FC Augsburg remain undefeated under head coach Jess Thorup. In the Dane’s fifth game in charge, the Fuggerstädter drew 1-1 away against 1. FC Union Berlin. Ermedin Demirovic gave FCA a first-half lead, however the home team fought back after the break to secure a point late on.
Thorup made two changes to his side from the 1-1 draw against TSG Hoffenheim. Fredrik Jensen was ruled out with illness and replaced by Arne Engels. The other alteration saw Thorup recall Iago to the starting XI, meaning Ruben Vargas started on the bench after a busy international break for the Swiss winger.
With their confidence built up thanks to the four-game unbeaten run, FCA went on the attack from the first whistle and looked to force Union into mistakes when they had possession. Captain Ermedin Demirovic had the first chance of the game, striking a low shot at goalkeeper Rönnow (9’). The home team also searched for an early goal and looked to catch out Augsburg’s defence on the break.
One penalty scored, one saved
Despite several decent opportunities at both ends, it was a penalty that led to the opening goal. Arne Engels was brought down by Robin Gosens in the box and Florian Badstübner awarded a penalty, sticking to his decision after consulting VAR. Demirovic grabbed the ball and confidently sent the goalkeeper the wrong way for 1-0 at half time (39’).
The next penalty was given in the 56th minute, however this time in favour of the home team. Iago fouled Christopher Trimmel in the area and once again Badstübner pointed to the spot after watching the incident back. Robin Knoche stepped up for Union, only to see Finn Dahmen save a penalty for the first time in his Bundesliga career!
Despite this missed spot-kick, the Berliners were able to take control of the game in the second half and cause Augsburg problems. On top of that, FCA were unable to break out of their own half to create any chances at the other end. As a result, the ever increasing pressure finally told as Union got their equaliser. Kevin Volland picked out the bottom corner from a knock down just inside the box to break Augsburg hearts (88’). Although both teams pushed for all three points in injury time, it wasn’t to be and they each had to settle for what was a fair point for both.
FCA are now sat in 10th after 12 matchdays. They are next in action at home to Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, 3rd December (19:30 CET).
