- Overcoming a slump, the modest-sized team triumphs in Bochum, securing a 2:0 victory against Gladbach.
Birthday lad Tim Kleindienst essentially put an end to Borussia Mönchengladbach's prolonged quest for a Bundesliga triumph. In their 2:0 victory over VfL Bochum, Seoane's team ultimately had something to cheer about, having gone seven matches without tasting victory. The Vonovia Ruhrstadion, filled with 26,000 spectators, witnessed Kleindienst (61.) grabbing a goal on his 29th birthday, providing his squad with the initial advantage. Honorat then followed up with the second goal at the 78th minute. Bochum, who had started the season undefeated in three competitive matches, subsequently suffered a setback.
Despite Manu Koné's absence, who had joined AS Roma the previous day and earned around 20 million euros, the visitors attempted to command the game. However, they had trouble dealing with Gladbach's relentless pressure. Bochum nearly scored first, but Hofmann's attempt from the half-left position narrowly missed the far post.
A wake-up call for Gladbach
This near-miss seemingly served as a wake-up call for Gladbach. As the contest progressed, they gradually gained control and intensified the pressure on the Bochum goal. To their dismay, Stöger, who had aided Bochum in securing promotion in the previous season's final stages, almost scored against his former club on two occasions. Sissoko cleared a shot from Gladbach's new signing off the line first, and then Stöger's effort from the edge of the box just missed.
Irrespective of both teams' fierce determination, the game lacked high-class Bundesliga excitement in the opening half, with the majority of the action taking place between the two penalty areas. Although Gladbach exhibited a keenness to play, they failed to produce a cutting edge in their attack.
More excitement after the break
The second half displayed a heightened level of excitement, primarily due to Bochum's resurgence, narrowly missing out on taking the lead through substitute Baldé's attempt. Gladbach had a goal disallowed due to offside, and Honorat struck the post during a counterattack, indicating a higher level of entertainment.
In the end, Gladbach's superior playing skills prevailed. Following an exquisite cross from Honorat, Kleindienst doubled his season tally with a well-placed header. Shortly after, Kleindienst repaid Honorat by setting him up again for a close-range finish to secure the victory.
Consequently, Bochum's perfect start to the season came to an end.
After the close call with Hofmann's missed opportunity, Borussia Mönchengladbach started to exert more control in the game. This shift in momentum could be seen as a turning point, serving as a wake-up call for the team.
With Kleindienst's doubling of his season tally and Honorat's subsequent goal, Borussia Mönchengladbach's Football league campaign continued successfully, adding to their Bundesliga triumph hopes.
