Freiburg show ‘biggest asset’ to beat Schalke and go top of Bundesliga

SC Freiburg moved to the top of the Bundesliga after Keisuke Goto’s late winner secured a 2-1 victory over Schalke 04, despite the hosts playing with 10 men for more than 25 minutes.

Vincenzo Grifo crossed for Goto to head Freiburg’s decisive goal in the 85th minute at the Europa-Park Stadion on Sunday, preserving their unbeaten start to the season.

Julian Schuster’s team took the lead when Maximilian Eggestein scored in the 10th minute. Adrian Gantenbein brought Schalke level before the interval, and Freiburg’s challenge became tougher when Yuito Suzuki was sent off in the 64th minute.

However, Freiburg continued to pursue victory rather than settle for a point. Their persistence was rewarded five minutes before the end, when substitute Grifo created the opportunity for Goto just two minutes after coming on.

Schuster said the result reflected the unity within his squad and the contribution of players who start matches on the bench.

“This is our biggest asset, this dressing room,” the Freiburg manager said, underlining the importance of protecting the team spirit that has helped his side make an encouraging start to the campaign.

He was especially pleased by the way Freiburg reacted to Suzuki’s dismissal.

“We knew Schalke were capable of getting back into the game at any moment, and that’s exactly what happened,” Schuster said. “After Yuito was sent off, the team stepped up for him.”

The Freiburg manager also stressed the value of every squad member, with the substitutes making a direct impact on the outcome. Grifo supplied the cross for Goto’s winner shortly after entering the game.

Eggestein, who had given Freiburg the lead, admitted the side had not maintained its usual standard after being reduced to 10 players but praised their resolve.

“Especially after the red card, it wasn’t a top performance anymore, but in terms of fighting spirit, it was very good,” the midfielder said.

The victory demonstrated Freiburg’s capacity to withstand pressure and secure a result through a collective effort rather than an outstanding individual display.

Schuster will next lead his side into Thursday’s Conference League fixture against FK Jablonec. Freiburg then return to Bundesliga action on Sunday, when they travel to face Bayer Leverkusen.