FC St. Pauli's return to the Bundesliga was marked by a narrow 2-1 home defeat to SC Freiburg at the Millerntor-Stadion in a thrilling Monday night encounter. Freiburg's clinical finishing in the first half proved decisive, as they scored two quick goals to stun the passionate home crowd, though St. Pauli mounted a fierce second-half comeback that fell just short. The visitors took the lead through a deflected shot from outside the box and doubled their advantage soon after with a close-range header from a corner. St. Pauli rallied after the break, pulling a goal back with a powerful drive from their midfielder and creating several late chances, including a shot that struck the post in added time. The match result sees Freiburg consolidate a place in the European qualification spots, while St. Pauli's fighting performance, though ending in defeat, will give them confidence in their survival battle. St. Pauli's coach praised his team's spirit, and the Freiburg manager was relieved to secure an important away win.