Enlarge image
Duel between Willi Orban (left) and Taiwo Awoniyi
Photo: RONNY HARTMANN / AFP
In the second semi-final of the DFB Cup, RB Leipzig beat Union Berlin 2-1 (0-1).
In the final on May 21, Leipzig will meet SC Freiburg, who won 3-1 (3-0) at Hamburger SV the night before.
Leipzig, who have been unbeaten for 14 competitive games, started with six changes in the starting eleven, including Konrad Laimer and Christopher Nkunku, who were so outstanding in progressing through the Europa League at Atalanta, returned.
However, the guests from Berlin had the first opportunity in front of 47,000 spectators: After a low cross from Christopher Trimmel, Grischa Prömel finished.
His deflected shot was unluckily kept in play by RB goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi when trying to save, giving Prömel another chance to finish.
But he only hit the side netting (15th minute).
The next dangerous Union attack was spot on: Trimmel found Sheraldo Becker with a dream cross from the right wing in the left half of the penalty area, who finished with a shot into the far post (25').
The deserved lead against previously unimaginative hosts and at the same time the first goal for Leipzig in this cup season.
After the first quick ball relay in the last third of the attack, André Silva pushed the ball just wide to the right from ten meters (37') after assisting Benjamin Henrichs.
Leipzig now more aggressive and with the next opportunity: Willi Orban headed past the right from a good position (48th).
The equalizer came with a penalty: Nkunku was fouled, Silva converted safely (61st).
The game remained open, and Union also had good chances through Taiwo Awoniyi (57th/71st).
The decision in stoppage time: Substitute Emil Forsberg converted a cross from the right wing with a header (90+1).
There will definitely be a debut cup winner there – neither RB Leipzig nor SC Freiburg have been able to win the competition so far.
There will be a reunion between RB and Union next Saturday.
Then the two teams meet in the league at 3.30 p.m.
mfu
