Finally back to zero! Thanks to a strong defensive performance, 1. FC Nürnberg is gaining some air in the relegation battle. The next test of strength is already waiting for Tuesday.
Düsseldorf (dpa / lby) - Markus Weinzierl was relieved at his first success as a "club" trainer. After the redeeming final whistle, the passionately coaching football coach of 1. FC Nürnberg blew hard and was happy about a hard-fought 1-0 win at Fortuna Düsseldorf a week after the 2-3 draw in the home game against Holstein Kiel. The Franconians have overcome their autumn crisis in the 2nd Bundesliga after three defeats in a row and have gained some breathing room in the relegation battle.
"We implemented things very well today, with a lot of passion and also with playful quality. We fought for over 90 minutes," Weinzierl praised the team effort. In front of 25,750 spectators, attacker Kwadwo Duah scored the winning goal for the "Club". In the 47th minute, the Swiss threw himself resolutely into a cross from midfielder Jens Castrop and converted a volley.
In contrast to Weinzierl's unsuccessful debut against Kiel, his players didn't break again after an hour against Fortuna, who were strong at home, but defended with all their toughness in the duels until the end. "I'm pleased with the way it was played. Nobody was too bad for anything," said Captain Christopher Schindler, who recently questioned the mentality within the team.
Goalkeeper Christian Mathenia also took positive note of Nuremberg's passionate commitment. After conceding a total of eight goals from the last three games, the Nuremberg goalkeeper was pretty much idle in Düsseldorf. "We were physically present, prevented many situations in advance and created 100% chances up front," commented Mathenia with satisfaction. For Düsseldorf it was the first home defeat since January; At that time there was also a 0:1 against the "Club".
Especially the diamond in Nuremberg midfield with Lino Tempelmann as a ten worked well. The dynamic driver missed a goal, but repeatedly caused unrest in the opposing penalty area. Weinzierl should also put his trust in Tempelmann on Tuesday when the next showdown in the DFB Cup awaits the "club". With a win at third division Waldhof Mannheim, Nuremberg want to make the round of 16 perfect.
