Guatemala
El Salvador
Sebastian Hoeneß’ charges initially struggled to get into the game against a robust, physical Wolfsburg side at a sold-out MHPArena. The Wolves created the better chances in the first half and took the lead through Yannick Gerhardt in the 35th minute, while VfB were grateful for some fine saves from Alex Nübel to keep them in the game.
Blistering second half
VfB turned the match on its head after the interval with a breathless display. Serhou Guirassy made it 1-1 from the penalty spot (67’) as the boys from Cannstatt built momentum, with two more goals from the forward (78’, 82’) sealing a deserved 3-1 victory following a sensational second half.
Goals
35th minute: The Wolves get forward on the counter, with Gerhardt finishing from inside the box to put the visitors in front.
67th minute: Guirassy is fouled inside the area and buries the ensuing penalty to equalise at 1-1.
78th minute: Chris Führich wins the ball off Ridle Baku in midfield and finds Guirassy, who beats Koen Casteels to put VfB ahead.
82nd minute: Unbelievable! Guirassy completes his hat-trick to put the result beyond all doubt!
Reaction
Sebastian Hoeneß, VfB head coach: “It was a tough game, as we expected, in the first half. We began the second half really well and won the ball back high up the pitch a few times. Alex made a couple of good saves and after we equalised our belief grew that we could turn the game around. We changed some things in terms of personnel and tactics, and it worked. I’m proud of this win because I know how difficult it is to play against Wolfsburg.”
Serhou Guirassy: “Thirteen goals in seven games – it’s unbelievable. I’m benefitting from my team-mates, who keep setting me up well. It’s just a lot of fun to play for this team in front of these fans.”
