1.FC Magdeburg lost contact with a non-relegation spot in the 2nd Bundesliga. In Düsseldorf, too harmless FCM lost 1:2 (0:1). Cedric Itten (37, 90+5) scored for Düsseldorf, an own goal from Christopher Lenz (88) equalized. As bottom of the standings, Magdeburg is six points behind the non-relegation zone.
“There’s no point in beating the players, but there’s no point in hugging everyone and saying we played well too. football. These are sporting results and we didn’t deliver,” said FCM coach Petrik Sander and added: “We also have a responsibility towards the region, the club and those on the curve.”
Somewhat surprising was Sander Mateusz Zukowski attacking from the start, and Tobias Müller also returned to central defense after injury in Bochum. In the first twelve minutes there was no organized support in protest, Fortuna losing an early lead through Christian Rasmussen (4).
Medical emergency – fans stop providing support
Due to a medical emergency at the stadium, both fans stopped supporting after the first twelve minutes. On the field, Magdeburg dominated the game, but were not dangerous. On the other hand, Fortuna was even less dangerous, but Itten (37) took the lead, even if FCM complained about a foul committed against Baris Atik.
Magdeburg came out of the dressing room with momentum, now determined to find a finish, but they did Düsseldorf still carrying one leg or goalkeeper Florian Kastenmeier between them. FCM remained the more active team and finally gained the advantage: Lenz deflected the ball from Philipp Hercher into his own net (88th). However, Itten’s second goal in stoppage time destroyed any hopes of getting a point.
1. FC Magdeburg must develop a new plan on how to maintain the league. This crisis is not due to the players’ commitment. However, the people of Elbestadt are not very competitive in attack or defense.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251122-930-326980/1
