Frankfurt is suppressing Istanbul's witch-hunt trials
In the pulsating atmosphere of the Europa League, Eintracht Frankfurt holds its ground: The Hessians put out the fire at Besiktas Istanbul with an early twin salvo. Afterward, goalkeeper Kauã Santos and striker Ansgar Knauff deliver outstanding performances.
Snow-cooled in the cauldron - Bayern Munich is on the prowl: Eintracht Frankfurt is all geared up to meet the Bundesliga titans from Munich in a top-tier encounter. The league's second-ranked team clinched a 3-1 (2-0) victory over Besiktas Istanbul in the Europa League. This triumph against the 21-time Turkish champions elevates Eintracht's spirits heading into the Sunday showdown with the lead chasers (17:30 CET/DAZN and ntv.de live ticker).
Omar Marmoush converted from the penalty spot (19.), Junior Dina Ebimbe (22.), and Ansgar Knauff (82.) notched the goals for Eintracht. The reliable Kauã Santos blocked a penalty (28.), but eventually surrendered late. Despite his efforts, he couldn't prevent Arthur Masuaku's goal (90.+3). In their initial encounter, the 2022 champs only managed a 3-3 draw against Viktoria Pilsen.
Knauff sinks a gem with the outside of his boot
"[It's expected to be] probably the most daunting challenge of the season thus far," Eintracht's coach Dino Toppmöller stated on RTL prior to kick-off: "But the lads are high-spirited, we're match-ready." Initially, Eintracht enjoyed a fortunate break in the deafening roar of the Besiktas Park. A potential foul by captain Robin Koch on former Dortmund star Ciro Immobile went unnoticed due to a very slight offside position (8.).
On the flip side, Frankfurt seized their first opportunity. In-form Marmoush converted from the penalty spot after being tripped by Gabriel Paulista. Shortly thereafter, Ebimbe wrapped up a set-piece. Six minutes later, Santos proved his mettle. The temporary captain for the injured Kevin Trapp saved Immobile's penalty. Koch had caused the handball. Santos also exhibited exceptional saves against a shot from Rafa Silva, pushing it against the post with his fingertips (37.). In stoppage time, he made yet another remarkable save against Immobile.
Mario Götze, the 2014 World Cup hero, faced challenges in the concluding minutes of the first half. Following a collision, he was visibly bleeding and continued playing with a headband. He was subbed out in favor of Fares Chaibi at half-time. In the second half, Frankfurt focused on counter-attacks, the defense held firm - there were barely any threats in the Frankfurt goalbox. Knauff bagged a stunning goal with the outside of his boot just before the final whistle.
In the upcoming Bundesliga clash, Eintracht Frankfurt aims to maintain their momentum: Following their impressive 3-1 victory over Besiktas in the Europa League, they are set to face Bayern Munich. The Hessians' outstanding performances in the Europa League, with key contributions from Kauã Santos and Ansgar Knauff, have boosted their confidence ahead of the challenge.
Even in the face of tough opposition, Ansgar Knauff continues to shine: His gem of a goal, scored with the outside of his boot in the Europa League, showcases his talent and determination, setting high expectations for his upcoming outings in the Bundesliga.
