The Euro Miracle: Freiburg’s Defeat in the Europa League
Freiburg’s run in the Europa League has come to an end as they fail to advance to the quarter-finals after a defeat in the round of 16 against Juventus Turin. After losing the first leg 0-1, Freiburg also lost the second leg 0-2.
The match was not without controversy, however. In the 41st minute, Juve defender Gatti came free in the penalty area and took a shot. Freiburg’s Gulde jumped in, but blocked the ball with his outstretched arm. The Holland referee initially let play continue, but after VAR studies determined that it was a handball, he awarded a penalty to Juve.
The penalty was converted by Vlahovic, but it was the sending off of Gulde that added further frustration for Freiburg. He had previously been warned for tactical fouls and was given yellow-red, leaving them outnumbered for the remainder of the match.
Despite the setback, Freiburg continued to fight courageously. However, luck was not on their side, as no ball wanted to go in against the impressive Italian defense. In the 57th minute, Szczesny saved against Höler, only to play the rebound back to the goalkeeper while lying down. Despite being easily pressed by Gregoritsch, the referee decided not to give a pass back but instead awarded Juve a free-kick.
In the end, Chiesa’s goal in added time put the final nail in the coffin for Freiburg’s Euro dream. The disappointment of the loss will be hard to bear, but they can take heart in the fact that they fought valiantly against one of Europe’s top sides.
Despite the setback, fans of the team will undoubtedly look forward to seeing their team take on new challenges and grow stronger as a result. Although the Euro miracle may have eluded them this time, there is no doubt that Freiburg will return to the international stage once again, more determined and focused than ever before.
