Wimmer changes the game but Wolfsburg held by Kiel | OneFootball

Wolfsburg and Holstein Kiel share spoils in thrilling 2-2 draw

Wolfsburg 2-2 Holstein Kiel Goals: 0-1 Zec 13' (assist: Javorček), 1-1 Wimmer 50' (assist: Wind), 2-1 Wind 53' (assist: Wimmer), 2-2 Skrzybski 80' (assist: Pichler)

Wolfsburg coach Ralph Hasenhüttl made three changes to the side that narrowly lost to Bayern Munich, bringing in Mattias Svanberg, Tiago Tomás, and Jonas Wind. Kiel's Marcel Rapp also shuffled his pack, with Timo Becker, Marco Komenda, Dominik Javorček, and Andu Kelati all earning starts.

Holstein Kiel players celebrate after David Zec's surprise opener against Wolfsburg, catching the home side off guard. (IMAGO/RHR-FOTO)

Kiel stun Wolfsburg with early goal

The match began with Wolfsburg asserting their dominance in possession, but it was Holstein Kiel who struck first against the run of play. In the 13th minute, David Zec rose highest to meet Javorček's corner, powering a header past Kamil Grabara to give the visitors a shock 1-0 lead. The goal, Kiel's first shot on target, showcased their efficiency and set the tone for a frustrating first half for the hosts. Despite controlling 75% of possession and attempting numerous attacks, particularly down the right flank, Wolfsburg struggled to create clear-cut chances against Kiel's resolute defence.

Wimmer inspires Wolfsburg comeback

Recognising the need for change, Hasenhüttl made two crucial substitutions at half-time, introducing Andreas Skov Olsen and Patrick Wimmer. The impact was immediate and dramatic. In the 50th minute, Wimmer latched onto a clever through ball from Wind and calmly slotted past Timon Weiner to level the scores. Just three minutes later, the roles were reversed as Wimmer's pinpoint corner found Wind, who headed home to give Wolfsburg a 2-1 lead. The Wolves' dominance continued, with Wimmer twice hitting the woodwork as they sought to extend their advantage.

Kiel snatch late equaliser

Just as it seemed Wolfsburg would see out the victory, Holstein Kiel demonstrated their resilience once more. In the 80th minute, against the run of play, substitute Steven Skrzybski controlled a pass from fellow substitute Benedikt Pichler and fired home, with his shot taking a slight deflection before beating Grabara. The goal, coming from only Kiel's second shot on target, stunned the home crowd and set up a tense finale, but neither team could find a winner, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw.

Player of the Match: Patrick Wimmer

While several players made significant contributions, Wimmer's impact off the bench was undeniable. The Austrian midfielder turned the game on its head after coming on at half-time, scoring the equaliser and assisting Wind's goal within just eight minutes of his introduction. His energy and creativity caused constant problems for the Kiel defence, and he was unlucky not to add to his tally, hitting both the crossbar and the post. Wimmer's performance exemplified Wolfsburg's attacking threat and was key to their second-half resurgence.

Bundesliga Match FactsxGoals: Wolfsburg 2.16 - Holstein Kiel 0.24Fastest player: Tiago Tomás (WOB), 34.1 km/hLowest goal probability: 0-1 by David Zec (KIE), 9 percentMost pressed player: Mohamed Amoura (WOB), 20 times under pressurePass efficiency: Jonas Wind (WOB), +2.99

Fantasy Heroes: Patrick Wimmer (Wolfsburg, 283 Points), Jonas Wind (Wolfsburg, 274 Points), Denis Vavro (Wolfsburg, 272 Points)

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