SSV Ulm’s Relegation Fight Falters with Loss to Nuremberg Despite Valiant Defense
Ulm, Germany – SSV Ulm’s hopes of escaping relegation from Germany’s 2. Fußball-Bundesliga suffered a setback on Saturday as they fell 2-0 to 1. FC Nuremberg at Max-Morlock-Stadion. Despite a valiant defensive performance while playing shorthanded, the "Spatzen" succumbed to late goals from Casper Jander and Janis Antiste.
The defeat marked the third consecutive loss for Ulm, leaving them firmly entrenched in the relegation zone. Nuremberg, on the other hand, climbed closer to the top of the table with the victory.
Ulm Holds Strong Against Nuremberg Pressure
Playing away from home, Ulm initially frustrated the home side with their compact defense. Led by goalkeeper Christian Ortag, the visitors effectively repelled Nuremberg’s early attempts to break through.
In the 47th minute, Ulm had a golden opportunity to seize the lead when Oliver Batista Meier found himself clear on goal. However, Nuremberg goalkeeper Jan Reichert produced a stunning save to deny the forward.
Red Card Paves the Way for Nuremberg Victory
The game took a decisive turn in the 59th minute when Ulm’s Maurice Krattenmacher was shown a second yellow card for simulation in the penalty area. Referee Richard Hempel immediately sent the defender off, reducing Ulm to ten men.
With the numerical advantage, Nuremberg gradually gained control of the match. Jens Castrop and Berkay Yilmaz tested Ortag with threatening shots, but the goalkeeper held firm to keep Ulm in the game.
Late Goals Break Ulm’s Resistance
As the clock ticked down, Nuremberg coach Miroslav Klose introduced winter signing Janis Antiste in a bid to force the issue. The tactic proved successful as Jander headed home a cross from Robin Hack in the 86th minute, breaking Ulm’s resistance.
In the dying seconds of the match, Antiste added another goal to seal the victory for Nuremberg. The 23-year-old Frenchman tapped in a pass from Enrico Valentini to put the result beyond doubt.
Ulm’s Relegation Fight Intensifies
Ulm’s defeat leaves them languishing in 17th place in the 2. Bundesliga standings, just one point above the automatic relegation zone. With only seven games remaining in the season, their hopes of avoiding the drop are hanging by a thread.
Nuremberg, meanwhile, moves up to 5th place with 43 points, strengthening their push for promotion to the Bundesliga. The victory was a welcome boost for coach Klose and his team as they look to secure a top-three finish.
The result adds drama to the relegation battle in the 2. Bundesliga, with several teams still fighting to avoid the drop. Ulm’s next match will be a crucial clash against fellow strugglers Dynamo Dresden on March 4, while Nuremberg faces a tough test away to 3rd-placed SV Darmstadt 98.
