Wolfsburg Secure Place in Knockout Phase

Wolfsburg moved to the top in Group B after the 2-0 win over CSKA Moscow yesterday at Arena Khimki. The German team replaced Manchester United with one point ahead.

Wolfsburg eliminated the Russian team from the competition. Igor Akinfeev, CSKA Moscow’s goalkeeper, made a terrible mistake. In the 67th minute he parried André Schürrle’s shot over his own line. Two minutes later Wolfsburg were close to double the result, but they could not finish the attack successfully. But in the 88th minute Schürrle scored again

The Germans have 9 points, Manchester United have 8 and PSV Eindhoven achieved 7 scores. After the defeat CSKA are placed at the bottom of the group with 4 points. Wolfsburg ended the Russian’s team hopes to continue in the competitions.

It was a tough game, but it was Wolfsburg who made the essential breakthrough. The team’s patience and determination were awarded with a great victory. This is the Germans’ third win in the Champions League.

The first half of the game was scoreless. Wolfsburg had the most possession and they looked comfortable, while playing. Dieter Hecking’s men were the greater threat. However, the team could not manage to create many positions.

On the other, CSKA Moscow struggled to settle during the first half. They could not manage to achieve deep attacks. Their best opportunity was in the 34th minute, but Ahmed Musa hit the side netting and missed a chance.

During the second half CSKA’s game improved after a few words from their coach. Alan Dzagoev stroke towards Wolfsburg’s net, but Diego Benaglio saved the shot.

Zoran Tosic had a clear point-cut opportunity minutes before Schürrle’s goal. He hit the post with a powerful shot. Leonid Slutsky, manager of the Russian team, said that if they had took the lead then, it would have been easier for them.

Wolfsburg were the dominant team in the second 45 minutes, as well. They took the lead an hour later and made the difference to their counterattacking. The searching ball found Schürrle and he stroke. Akinfeev could not manage to save it, but bundled it into the net. It was credited as an own-goal.

In the 88th minute the former Chelsea player volleyed the second goal. There was no doubt that the second goal belonged to him.

The game ended 2-0 in favour of Wolfsburg, who placed themselves at the first place in Group B.