SV 07 Elversberg secured a key 3‑1 win at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, setting a sharp tone in the promotion race. The match, held at the Fritz‑Walter‑Stadion, was open from the start: Kaiserslautern pressed high and created early danger, notably when Joly nearly scored after a good run. Elversberg, however, remained threatening, especially on quick counter‑attacks, with Conté and Petkov repeatedly challenging FCK keeper Krahl.
A slippery pitch caused unusual mistakes for both sides. Just before half‑time, a heated sequence unfolded. During a VAR review, referee Deniz Aytekin awarded a penalty to Elversberg after Lauterns Robinson was seen pulling on Rohr’s shirt during a shot. The same incident also resulted in a red card for Robinson. Petkov calmly converted the penalty in the 45+6 minute, putting the visitors ahead 1‑0.
Kaiserslautern showed character in added time. In the 45+9 minute, a misdirected shot by Skyttä off Elversberg’s Rohr rebounded into the net for an own goal, forcing the game to 1‑1 despite FCK’s numerical disadvantage.
The second half highlighted the impact of the red card. Elversberg played with composure, controlled possession, and patiently sought gaps. A combination over Zimmerschied in the 55th minute provided David Mokwa, who scored from close range to restore a 2‑1 lead for the visitors. The “Rote Teufel” fought on and switched tactics, but serious threats were scarce. Elversberg’s defense held firm, winning many second balls and stifling counters.
In the dying minutes, Kaiserslautern opened up further space. Elversberg capitalized: after winning the midfield, Petkov delivered a cross into the box to substitute Luca Schnellbacher, who slotted the ball home from close range in the 86th minute. The goal made the result 3‑1 and sealed the match.
The final minutes were calm, with a few minor incidents leading to yellow cards but no change in the scoreline. Elversberg celebrated a deserved away victory rooted in player superiority and disciplined second‑half control. With 38 points, the club leapfrogs into second place, staying one point behind Schalke in the promotion race.
Conversely, 1. FC Kaiserslautern, despite a spirited performance, must accept defeat. The red card proved too costly, and with 31 points the Pälzer are currently ranked sixth, losing their early position in the upper tier.