Borussia Monchengladbach's young dogs charging towards the next predicament
Following a subpar performance in the previous season, Borussia Mönchengladbach was anticipated to turn things around. Despite the addition of notable new players, they've struggled to find their rhythm. FC Augsburg, on the other hand, has been leveraging their home advantage, ultimately celebrating a spectacular goal.
After a remarkable comeback in the 1. Bundesliga with VfL Bochum in the previous season, Kevin Stöger and Keven Schlotterbeck parted ways, much to the disappointment of Bochum fans. This time around, on a Friday evening, Stöger and Schlotterbeck found themselves on opposite sides. And it was Schlotterbeck who reveled in the triumph, as he netted a dream goal for FC Augsburg in their 2-1 victory against Stöger's Borussia Mönchengladbach. The latter departed the arena filled with disappointment, heading into an international break.
The "Fohlen"'s start to the season has been disappointing. With the hopes of a significant turnaround, two new signings were brought in: Stöger and Tim Kleindienst, who had an impressive run at 1. FC Heidenheim and had recently been included in the German national team. Kleindienst showcased his talent against FCA, being one of the few Gladbach players to maintain good form and to equalize (72.).
Insufficient from Borussia
Despite Kleindienst's efforts, it wasn't enough for Borussia. Coach Gerardo Seoane is now dealing with even more pressure, as rumors of his potential job loss have been circulating since the previous season. Despite held on to his post so far, he now faces greater frustration. He was not pleased with his team's performance: "We committed too many technical errors, in our passing, precision, and decision-making. When we pressed, we didn't manage to threaten the opponent's backline, creating clearer situations."
The approaching international break, which will limit his squad, does not sit well with him: "I will keep my views on the international break to myself, as I cannot change it. We'll head into the weekend disgruntled due to the defeat. We'll utilize the time to work with the players who remain."
The players shared in this frustration and self-criticism. Team captain Julian Weigl stated: "I can't explain it. In the first half, we unwittingly invited Augsburg, even in our build-up. In the second half, it wasn't impactful enough, and we left too many gaps at the back. That's why the game did not yield success in every aspect."
Unexpected top striker?
Meanwhile, Augsburg's morale was considerably higher. In the thrill of their second win of the season, coach Jess Thorup was in a jovial mood. "I have to consider playing Keven as a striker when he's fully fit," he joked about his defender who scored a beautifully executed volley to bring his team ahead and give them the edge in their victorious pursuit.
Utilizing his chest, Schlotterbeck convictedly controlled the ball in the Gladbach penalty area and powerfully struck it into the goal. How often does he pull off that feat? "Nine times out of ten, of course," he admitted with a chuckle and complimented his team: "Well done." The success was achieved "with mentality, passion, the fire in our eyes." Schlotterbeck was one of the standouts for Augsburg. However, his exceptional performance ended abruptly in the 68th minute when he sustained an injury to his left thigh. He declined to comment on the severity of the injury in the aftermath of the match in the bowels of the WWK Arena: "Let's see."
The following statement was made by Borussia Mönchengladbach coach Gerardo Seoane: "We committed too many technical errors, in our passing, precision, and decision-making." The following shall be added to Borussia's roster in the hopes of improving their performance: Tim Kleindienst and Oscar Wendt, who is set to join from Bayer Leverkusen on loan.
