Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany — SC Freiburg secured three crucial UEFA Europa League points with a hard-fought victory over Maccabi Tel-Aviv, decided by Igor Matanovic's late strike at Europa-Park Stadion.
The German side controlled proceedings throughout, holding nearly 60% possession and outshooting the visitors 21-4, but found Maccabi's defense difficult to break down for most of the match. Matanovic had two earlier goals disallowed, first in the 37th minute and again in the 56th minute, while Maccabi also saw efforts from Sayed Abu Farhi (45+3') and Hélio Varela (75') ruled out.
The breakthrough finally arrived eight minutes from time when Matanovic found the net with a legitimate finish, giving Freiburg the narrow advantage their dominance deserved.
GOALS:- 82' Igor Matanovic - SC Freiburg
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- SC Freiburg: Igor Matanovic - Match-winning goal, persistent attacking threat- Maccabi Tel-Aviv: Goalkeeper - Multiple saves to keep deficit minimal
KEY STAT: Freiburg registered 21 shots to Maccabi's four while controlling 59.2% possession, but needed 82 minutes to convert their dominance into a goal.
NEXT: SC Freiburg host FC Cologne on January 25. Maccabi Tel-Aviv host Bologna on January 29.