Manuel Riemann fired VfL Bochum into the last 16 of the DFB Cup with the decisive fifth penalty. The goalkeeper didn’t even know he was going to be involved in the match.
The cup fight between Bochum and Augsburg culminated in the final penalty. Arne Maier had previously been the fifth FCA shooter to put the ball over the goal, meaning the match ball was in VfL’s favour. To the surprise of many, it was not captain Anthony Losilla who took the ball, but goalkeeper Manuel Riemann. Bochum’s regular keeper, who is known as a penalty killer, came on for Michael Esser in the 118th minute, but did not stop a ball in the penalty shoot-out. In the end completely irrelevant, as Riemann nevertheless took responsibility and converted the decisive penalty dryly down the left.
“I didn’t know anything about the whole plan. It was not agreed beforehand that I would be substituted shortly before the penalty shoot-out,” Riemann gave an insight into the decision-making on the touchline on the club website. “In the 103rd minute I was asked how long it would take me to warm up. Then I said I needed five to ten minutes. I then went down to the dressing room and watched a few more penalties. Then I went up and it started,” said Riemann.
“It’s only eleven metres “
While the short-notice video study didn’t bring much, as the previous Bochum shooters all converted as well, the 33-year-old was presented with a great opportunity. “I think it’s well known that I have a good right foot. It’s only eleven metres. To be honest, I was pretty sure today,” said Riemann, leaving no doubt.
Actually, Bochum’s regular keeper was supposed to get a break against Augsburg and Esser the chance to distinguish himself. “Of course I knew about Manu’s quota,” said Esser, who “doesn’t really care whether I play or not, as long as we keep the class in the end. Now I was allowed to play a game and I’m happy with the game. Of course it’s even nicer that it ended like this. “
Reis’ praise for FCA
At the same time, VfL could have made that end much more relaxed, after all, the Bundesliga promoted side led 2-0 in the second half. “It was very annoying that we immediately conceded the goal. The 2:2 then showed that Augsburg has a really good team that never lets itself down, even if they are a little behind us in the Bundesliga table,” was the conclusion of Bochum coach Thomas Reis, who is now in the last 16 with his VfL.