Thanks to a Gregoritsch gala: Freiburg advance to the knockout phase
The previously hapless Michael Gregoritsch has ended his goal drought with a hat-trick and secured SC Freiburg a place in the Europa League this winter.
The Austrian international scored in the third, eighth and 36th minutes of the 5:0 (4:0) win against Olympiakos Piraeus. It was his first goal for Sport-Club this season in his 15th competitive match. He also set up Kiliann Sildillia's goal (42'). The final goal was scored by Ritsu Doan (77).
With their fourth win in five games, Freiburg are already safely through to the knockout phase ahead of their final group game against West Ham United. The two clubs will meet in London on December 14 to decide who wins the group, which would mean a direct place in the round of 16.
Freiburg should travel to England's capital, but also to their next Bundesliga match on Sunday (3.30 pm/DAZN) at FSV Mainz 05, with a large dose of self-confidence - thanks to their dream start against Piraeus. Gregoritsch was in the right place for a deflected cross and cleverly put his body in against Panagiotis Retsos. After missing many chances this season, the 29-year-old ended his negative run.
Even before the game, strike partner Lucas Höler had encouraged him. "At some point, he'll get it together. We know what Gregerl's strengths are," said Höler, encouraging his team-mate. And just five minutes after taking the lead, Gregoritsch showed his strengths for the second time on this rainy evening. This time he was on hand to head home from a corner kick.
The Greeks reacted in shock. Only a win would have given them a chance of progressing, but the visitors lacked precision in the final third. Freiburg controlled the game in front of 34,000 spectators and cheered again after Gregoritsch's third goal.
But the first half was still not over. The Freiburg team now combined with gusto through the now very patchy defense until Gregoritsch found the free Silidillia - 4:0. Coach Christian Streich rubbed his eyes in amazement at the next gala on the European stage. Most recently, Sport-Club had also beaten Bačka Topola 5:0.
The hosts shifted down a gear after the break due to their clear lead and Streich decided to rest several key players after just over an hour - Gregoritsch was also sent off to much applause.
Hardly anything happened in the penalty areas. Freiburg did no more than necessary and did not get into trouble against the 47-time Greek champions, who were inferior in every respect. The final goal in a one-sided game was scored by Doan.
Source: www.dpa.com
