October 28, (THEWILL) – Union Berlin beat Waldorf Mannheim 3-1 in extra time at the Carl-Benz-Stadion on Thursday evening in a DFB Pokal match and star striker Taiwo Awoniyi was one of the goal-scorers and standout performers once again.
The Super Eagles striker’s goal, sandwiched between a Kevin Behrens brace, gave the Iron Ones the lead four minutes into extra time, sending Urs Fischer’s side into the German Cup’s next round.
However, the triumph was not as simple as the final score might suggest.
Union Berlin, who were flying high in the Bundesliga table, were supposed to breeze past the side two divisions below them in 3. Liga, but Mannheim were not about to let themselves be run over and scored first through Rossipal after just four minutes.
Union equalised in the 18th minute and despite the arrival of Awoniyi in the second half, the visitors were unable to go past their hosts in time.
Fortunately, Awoniyi had time to demonstrate why he is one of Germany’s most in-form strikers by scoring just five minutes into extra time to give the Iron Ones the lead for the first time in the match. Three minutes before the end of the game, Behrens added a third goal to secure victory.
Awoniyi’s goal was his seventh in as many games for Urs Fischer’s side this season, and his 12th in all competitions.
The victory sees Union Berlin avoid the embarrassment of being knocked out of the DFB Pokal by a team two divisions below them, while also securing a place in the Round of 16 of the competition.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
