Overview

• The 24-year-old scored in the 10th minute and later chipped goalkeeper Rieß to cap Hamburg’s rout at the Volksparkstadion.
• After his first goal he mimed a phone to the camera to convey that he is committed to HSV and the transfer topic is closed.
• Mainz had pursued him earlier this year, including talks with club leaders and coach Bo Henriksen, before he joined HSV from Eintracht Braunschweig for a reported fee of more than €2 million.
• His speed, clocked at over 34 km/h, repeatedly hurt Mainz on counters as Merlin Polzin’s system elevates his importance.
• Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert acknowledged prior interest and praised Philippe’s quality and character, while HSV teammates hailed his display during post-match celebrations.