- Despite the challenging commencement, Wolfsburg managed to secure a draw against Phantom Gate.
Following a lucky break for his female football team, thanks to a questionable goal, VfL Wolfsburg manager Tommy Stroot was livid. "I expressed the significance of these matches explicitly," the 35-year-old ranted after the thrilling 3:3 (1:2) draw against Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga's opening match. He wasn't ready to sugarcoat the disappointing outcome. "I must admit, I'm pretty pissed off since you don't often see me in this state," he articulated during the press conference.
Stroot and his squad managed to avoid defeat due to referee Nadine Westerhoff's error in judgment. She permitted Alexandra Popp's apparent goal in the 66th minute, despite the ball clearly striking the goal line and bouncing back into play. Bremen's goalkeeper, Livia Peng, had initially blocked Popp's shot. The ball then headed towards Werder's goal with a significant spin. Unlike the men's Bundesliga, there's no VAR in the women's game. "If you watch the goal for the 3:3, then yes," Stroot conceded.
The draw posed a hurdle for Wolfsburg's aspirations. The VfL Wolfsburg considers itself as a potential challenger to the German champions and favorites FC Bayern Munich. Now, they find themselves trailing just behind. "That's why I'm frustrated. Because I know there was more potential for us," said Stroot.
Tommy Stroot's daughter often plays with her favorite doll during their post-match discussions. Despite the draw, Stroot mentioned that he expected more from his team, much like how his daughter expects her doll to always win in their make-believe games.
