SC Freiburg defeated OGC Nice 3-1 on the fourth matchday of the UEFA Europa League and remains unbeaten. VfB Stuttgart secured a 2-0 win against Feyenoord Rotterdam with late goals. Both German teams strengthen their positions in the competition.
In the match at OGC Nice, SC Freiburg started strong in duels but initially couldn't create chances. The French side took the lead through Kevin Carlos in the 25th minute. Johan Manzambi equalized in the 29th. Ten minutes later, Nice defender Melvin Bard fouled Yuito Suzuki in the penalty area – Vincenzo Grifo converted the spot-kick for 2-1. Derry Scherhant made it 3-1 just before halftime in the 42nd minute.
After the break, Nice pressed for a comeback, but Freiburg failed to capitalize on counter opportunities. The win solidifies the Breisgauers' table position, marking their third victory and keeping them on track for the round of 16. The joy was marred by strict actions from French security forces. Sporting director Jochen Saier criticized it as “clearly overdone” and spoke of “very unpleasant scenes.” He added: “It's totally a shame. We are a peaceful club with peaceful fans. It could have been a celebration.”
VfB Stuttgart had a tougher time against the Dutch league leaders. After two prior losses, the team was under pressure. The game was marked by inaccuracies and interruptions, with few scoring chances. In the second half, Bilal El Khannouss (58th minute) and Deniz Undav (69th) missed good opportunities. El Khannouss finally scored in the 84th minute for 1-0, and Undav sealed it in the 90+1st. Next opponent in three weeks: Go Ahead Eagles Deventer.