Hoffenheim fall again, now with an agonizing goal from Augsburg

Fredrik Jensen scored late as Augsburg beat Hofenheim 1-0 in the Bundesliga on Friday, handing United States manager Pellegrino Matarazzo his second loss in two games since taking over.

Augsburg captain Jeffrey Gouweleeuw came from a corner to hit the far post in the 88th minute to hand the hosts the win.

Augsburg thus moved within five points of Hoffenheim, who have not won since October and are just two points above the relegation zone going into the rest of Matchday 21.

Hoffenheim have six defeats and a draw after seven games in 2023.

Matarazzo, born in New Jersey, was signed last week by Hoffenheim to replace André Breitenreiter sacked. On his debut, the team lost 3-1 to Bayer Leverkusen.

Augsburg striker Ermerin Demirovic thought he had scored after the break when his shot crashed into the crossbar and into his left loot before hitting the net.

But the goal was ruled out after consultation with VAR, as Kelvin Yeboah had already punched Kevin Vogt in the face, apparently by accident.

The Hoffenheim defender fell, putting a hand to his nose. Visibly dazed, he left the court to receive treatment.

The Hofenheim medical staff decided he was in no condition to continue.

Andrej Kramaric, who replaced Hoffenheim, had the better luck in the closing stages. But a fine save from Rafal Gikiewicz prevented his goal.