Rot-Weiss Essen Secures Vital Win Over Waldhof Mannheim with Controversial Freekick

Ahmet Arslan's stunning freekick lifts Essen five points clear of relegation, as Mannheim's struggles on the road continue.

Rot-Weiss Essen defeated Waldhof Mannheim 1-0 in a tense match, with Ahmet Arslan scoring the decisive goal from a freekick in the 24th minute.
The freekick decision was contentious, with Mannheim's coach and players voicing frustration over the referee's call after the match.
The victory moves Essen up to 11th place in the 3. Liga standings, creating a five-point cushion from the relegation zone.
Mannheim's winless streak in away games stretches to eight matches, leaving the team in 18th place and deep in relegation trouble.
Essen's goalkeeper Jakob Golz played a pivotal role, making crucial saves to preserve the narrow lead in a match marked by Mannheim's second-half dominance.