Eintracht Frankfurt weather late pressure to secure victory over Holstein Kiel
Already flying high in the standings, Eintracht Frankfurt consolidated third place with a relatively straightforward win against basement side Holstein Kiel, Hugo Larsson, Tuta, and Can Uzun all on target for the Eagles.
Eintracht Frankfurt 3-1 Holstein Kiel
Goals: 1-0 Larsson 18‘ (assist: Brown), 2-0 Tuta 37’, 3-0 Uzun 60’, 3-1 Porath 73’ (assist: Arp)
Dino Toppmöller's men welcomed Kiel to their Deutsche Bank Park home looking to get back to winning ways after three consecutive draws, while the visitors were aiming to climb off bottom spot in the table.
Frankfurt dominate first half
The match kicked off with Kiel showing early promise, but it was Frankfurt who quickly asserted their dominance. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Hugo Larsson found the back of the net, capitalising on a well-worked move. Frankfurt continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded in the 37th minute when Tuta volleyed home from a corner, doubling his team's lead and putting the hosts firmly in control.
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Penalty drama before half-time
The first half drama wasn't over, however, as Eintracht were awarded a penalty in the 45th minute following a handball by Ivan Nekić. Hugo Ekitiké stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Kiel's debutant goalkeeper Thomas Dähne pulled off a magnificent save, diving to his left to deny the Frenchman. Despite this setback, Frankfurt went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead having dominated possession and created numerous chances.
Uzun seals the deal
The second half saw Frankfurt maintain their control, and they effectively put the game to bed on the hour mark. Can Uzun, making his first Bundesliga start at home, pounced on a loose ball from David Zec and calmly slotted past Dähne to make it 3-0. Kiel, however, showed admirable resilience and managed to pull one back in the 73rd minute through Finn Porath, who bundled the ball home after a series of saves from Kevin Trapp.
Kiel's late surge not enough
The visitors' goal sparked a period of increased pressure, with Kiel pushing for a comeback. They enjoyed more possession and created several chances, but Frankfurt's defence held firm. Despite Kiel's efforts, Frankfurt managed the game well in the closing stages, with Elye Wahi coming close to adding a fourth in injury time.
Player of the Match: Nathaniel Brown
Brown delivered a standout performance here. The young defender was a constant threat down the left flank, contributing significantly to Frankfurt's attacking play. His defensive work was equally impressive, making crucial interceptions and helping to nullify Kiel's attacks. The youngster's energy and work rate were evident throughout the match, covering significant ground and contributing both in attack and defence.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Frankfurt 2.47 - Kiel 1.75
Fastest player: Hugo Ekitiké (Frankfurt), 33.85 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 3-1 by Finn Porath (Kiel), 93 per cent
Most pressed player: Rasmus Kristensen (Frankfurt), 18 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Can Uzun (Frankfurt), +2.4
Fantasy Heroes: Thomas Dähne (Kiel, 310 Points), Hugo Larsson (Frankfurt, 275 Points), Tuta (Frankfurt, 243 Points)
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