Hoffenheim uses Ilzer's birthday for a clear win over Lyon

As part of a festive gala in the Europa League, TSG Hoffenheim welcomed Olympique Lyon on matchday three in front of 21,029 fans. One day after the 49th birthday of coach Christian Ilzer, the home side deservedly won 3-0 (1-0) and secured its first points.

First Goals and the Decisive Momentum

Croatian Andrej Kramaric took control of the ball when he headed it into the net in the 45+4 minute – the Croatian's first season goal and also a strike that got TSG Hoffenheim back on track. Kramaric, who was deployed from the start by coach Christian Ilzer for only the second time this season, demonstrated his class.

Just a few minutes later, in the 49th minute, Adam Daghim doubled the lead with a low shot to make it 2-0, followed by Adam Hlozek in the 83rd minute, who, after a pass from Kramaric, scored the third goal. Both Adam players capitalised on the chances created by Kramaric to seal the result.

Injuries and Other Match Events

Before the win, Hoffenheim had lost the first two Europa League matches – a 0-2 defeat to OFI Crete and a 2-3 loss to Besiktas Istanbul. The victory over the French Ligue 1 leaders therefore secured the group's first points.

Lyon had to cope without former Bayern professional Corentin Tolisso and former Mainz player Moussa Niakhaté, both of whom were on the bench. Despite their absence, the visitors pressed with quick counter‑attacks, but goalkeeper Oliver Baumann saved the ball in the 37th minute from Kail Boudache.

In the 20th minute, centre‑back Robert Hranac headed the ball on target after a prolonged corner, but goalkeeper Dominik Graf deflected it just onto the post. Shortly after, Lyon defender Steeve Kango fell awkwardly on his back after an aerial duel with Tim Lemperle, received treatment for five minutes and was eventually taken off the pitch on a stretcher.

After stoppage time, the fans cheered as Kramaric headed the ball in a high arc into the net during the second phase of attack. Coach Christian Ilzer, who had promised his team a bee‑sting cake for his birthday, clapped contentedly from the sideline. The win once again makes Hoffenheim a contender for the knockout stage.