On February 7, 2025, Arminia Bielefeld faced off against SV Sandhausen at Hardtwaldstadion, resulting in a disappointing 1-0 defeat for the visitors. This loss marks yet another significant setback for Arminia as they struggle to maintain their position in the promotion race for the 2. Fußball-Bundesliga. With this defeat, Arminia has failed to win six of their last seven matches, remaining four points behind the relegation playoff spot.
Marco Schikora provided the only goal of the match for the home side, scoring with a precise finish after capitalizing on a rebound from Arminia's goalkeeper Jonas Kersken, who initially deflected a free kick from Niklas Kreuzer onto the post. Ironically, Bielefeld had the upper hand for most of the game, creating multiple scoring chances yet unable to find the back of the net, primarily due to the impressive performance of Sandhausen’s keeper David Richter.
The match began with both teams showing attacking intent, but it was Bielefeld who seemed poised for success early on. Within the first few minutes, Roberts Uldrikis had two golden opportunities to put his team ahead, but his efforts were thwarted by Richter.
A lively Bielefeld crowd, filled with around 1,000 traveling supporters, witnessed their team's struggle to convert opportunities. Arminia's coach, Mitch Kniat, made alterations to the offensive formation, bringing Noah Sarenren Bazee onto the right side. Despite the adjustments, the team continued its pattern of squandering chances, with Joel Grodowski missing one notable opportunity by shooting wide from close range.
Even after falling behind, Bielefeld continued to press for an equalizer. Captain Mael Corboz nearly drew them level just before halftime but struck the outside of the post from 16 yards. The frustration mounted as Sandhausen's defense, led by Jakob Lewald, held strong against persistent Bielefeld attacks.
The second half mirrored the first with Bielefeld pressing forward, determined to overturn the deficit. Just moments after the break, they thought they had leveled the score. Again it was Grodowski, who saw his effort thwarted impressively by Richter. Time and again, Arminia's attacks were met by resolute defending and standout goalkeeping.
While Sandhausen struggled to regain their footing after taking the lead, they found some rhythm thanks to Richter’s remarkable saves. At one point, after another dangerous set-piece from Bielefeld, defender Joel Felix's effort hit the post, and Uldrikis could not convert the rebound.
Despite countless attempts and pressure, including several corner kicks—Bielefeld won 12 to Sandhausen's 1—they could not break through. Instead, as the match drew to its conclusion, Sandhausen defended resolutely, with Lewald making another key intervention, clearing Uldrikis' header off the line just as the 89th minute ticked away.
With this victory, SV Sandhausen ended their eight-match winless streak, having not secured three points since November. After the match, Sandhausen coach Kenan Kocak praised his team’s resilience, noting the importance of the win for their morale.
Looking forward, Bielefeld will have to regroup quickly, with their next chance to earn points as they host FC Erzgebirge Aue on February 15 at 14:00. Meanwhile, Sandhausen will attempt to build on this momentum against Borussia Dortmund II the same day at 16:30.