Rot-Weiss Essen Snatch Late Win at SSV Ulm 1846

In a dramatic German 3.Liga clash on 16 May 2026, Rot-Weiss Essen came from behind to defeat SSV Ulm 1846 3-2 at the Donaustadion. The visitors scored twice in the last 10 minutes to turn the match on its head and claim a vital victory.

Match Overview

Ulm started strongly and took the lead in the 22nd minute through a well-struck free kick by Lennart Stenzel. Essen equalized just before half-time when Simon Engelmann pounced on a defensive error. Ulm regained the lead early in the second half via a composed finish from Moritz Kretzschmar, and they looked set to see the game out.

However, Essen showed remarkable character. They pushed forward relentlessly and finally broke through in the 81st minute when substitute Jonas Hildebrandt headed home from a corner. In the 89th minute, with Ulm's defense exhausted, Felix Bastians squeezed a shot through a crowd of players to snatch all three points for the visitors.

Key Moments

• 22' – Stenzel curls in a free kick to give Ulm the lead.
• 44' – Engelmann equalizes after a goalkeeping mistake.
• 55' – Kretzschmar slots home to put Ulm 2-1 up.
• 81' – Hildebrandt levels with a powerful header.
• 89' – Bastians scores the winner from close range.

Tactical Story

Ulm set up in a 4-2-3-1, controlling the midfield early on. Essen started cautiously but switched to a more aggressive 3-4-3 after going 2-1 down, pushing wingers high. The introduction of Hildebrandt gave Essen extra aerial threat, which proved decisive as Ulm tired.

Standout Players

• Simon Engelmann (Essen) – Scored the crucial equalizer and led the line with determination.
• Jonas Hildebrandt (Essen) – The super sub changed the game with his goal.
• Lennart Stenzel (Ulm) – A standout performance in midfield with a brilliant free kick.

Table Impact

The win moves Essen up to 10th, comfortably mid-table. Ulm stay 16th, now just two points above the relegation playoff spot. The late collapse will be a bitter blow for the home side's survival hopes.