Bundesliga
Derrick Köhn and Marvin Ducksch netted a goal in each half as Werder Bremen climbed up to ninth spot in the standings following a fifth win on the road this term, with St. Pauli succumbing at the Millerntor-Stadion.
St. Pauli 0-2 Werder Bremen
Goals: 0-1 Köhn 24’ (assist: Stage), 0-2 Duscksh 56’ (assist: Weiser)
Ahead of the meeting, the home side were eager to put distance between themselves and the relegation zone, while Bremen were looking to edge closer to the European spots.
The first half was a closely fought affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Köhn found the net for Bremen. Jens Stage provided the assist, setting up Köhn who fired a low shot into the far corner, beyond the reach of Nikola Vasilj. The opening goal came somewhat against the run of play, as St. Pauli had been enjoying more possession, although Alexander Blessin's men failed to translate that into meaningful opportunities.
The second half saw St. Pauli pushing for an equaliser, but it was Werder who struck again. In the 56th minute, Ducksch doubled Bremen's lead with a clinical finish. The striker controlled a long ball from Michael Zetterer before firing past Vasilj at the near post. The goal proved to be a sucker punch for the home side, who despite their efforts, couldn't find a way back into the match.
Pauli continued to create chances therafter. Johannes Eggestein was particularly active, involved in five shots on goal - more than any other player. However, Bremen's defence, led by the likes of Anthony Jung - who won 75 percent of his duels - stood firm. Pauli's Oladapo Afolayan found himself under constant pressure, being pressed 26 times during the match, the highest of any player on the pitch.
The striker proved to be the difference-maker, with his goal in the 56th minute effectively cementing the win for Ole Werner's men. The goal showcased Ducksch's clinical finishing and experience. The forward's ability to control a long ball and finish with precision under pressure demonstrated his value to the team. His performance was not just about the goal; his overall movements and link-up play with teammates were crucial in Bremen's efficient attacking showing, which saw them score twice from just six shots.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: St. Pauli 0.66 - Bremen 1.03
Fastest player: Derrick Köhn (Bremen), 34.62 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Derrick Köhn (Bremen), 4 percent
Most pressed player: Oladapo Afolayan (St. Pauli), 26 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Jens Stage (Bremen), +3.71
Fantasy Heroes: Mitchell Weiser (Bremen, 374 Points), Derrick Köhn (Bremen, 284 Points), Jens Stage (Bremen, 229 Points)