Werder Bremen's desperation was palpable as they clung to a 2-0 lead over Borussia Mönchengladbach in the dying minutes of stoppage time, with Keke Topp's sublime finish seeming like a miracle goal. The equalizer felt like a near-miracle, but it wasn't enough to save Horst Steffen, who was sacked just hours after Saturday's match.
Topp's goal was the spark that lifted Werder from their dismal form, but it didn't address the underlying issues plaguing the team. Werder are now in 15th place, with a winless run stretching to ten matches, and have failed to beat Gladbach despite having the better chances. The team's recent performance has been lackluster, with few notable contributions from new signings.
The departure of Steffen is not surprising, given the team's poor form. Werder are in danger of relegation, and their board had no choice but to act. They have long since abandoned hope of mounting a serious challenge for European places, leaving them searching for an external solution to revive their fortunes.
Thomas Schaaf, who led Werder to historic double-winning seasons as a player and coach, is among those considered for the vacant post. However, at 64 years old and having not coached full-time in nearly a decade, it's unlikely he will be available. Werder need someone with a fresh perspective and new ideas to lift them out of their slump.
Mainz, who won on Saturday despite being behind, are rolling after Silas Katompa Mvumpa scored a brilliant solo goal, and Stuttgart are moving up the table. Hamburg held Bayern Munich in a thrilling game, while Augsburg followed up last week's win at Bayern with another victory. The top four is becoming clearer, with Bayern leading Dortmund by six points.
Werder Bremen face Hoffenheim on Sunday, with the pressure mounting as they look to avoid relegation. With their season hanging in the balance, Werder need a miracle to turn their fortunes around.
Topp's goal was the spark that lifted Werder from their dismal form, but it didn't address the underlying issues plaguing the team. Werder are now in 15th place, with a winless run stretching to ten matches, and have failed to beat Gladbach despite having the better chances. The team's recent performance has been lackluster, with few notable contributions from new signings.
The departure of Steffen is not surprising, given the team's poor form. Werder are in danger of relegation, and their board had no choice but to act. They have long since abandoned hope of mounting a serious challenge for European places, leaving them searching for an external solution to revive their fortunes.
Thomas Schaaf, who led Werder to historic double-winning seasons as a player and coach, is among those considered for the vacant post. However, at 64 years old and having not coached full-time in nearly a decade, it's unlikely he will be available. Werder need someone with a fresh perspective and new ideas to lift them out of their slump.
Mainz, who won on Saturday despite being behind, are rolling after Silas Katompa Mvumpa scored a brilliant solo goal, and Stuttgart are moving up the table. Hamburg held Bayern Munich in a thrilling game, while Augsburg followed up last week's win at Bayern with another victory. The top four is becoming clearer, with Bayern leading Dortmund by six points.
Werder Bremen face Hoffenheim on Sunday, with the pressure mounting as they look to avoid relegation. With their season hanging in the balance, Werder need a miracle to turn their fortunes around.