Third test – TSG impress with win against 1860 München

In Hoffenheim's Dietmar-Hopp-Stadion, the hosts took the reigns early on. In the first ten minutes, it was TSG who carved out three good chances. But Sebastian Rudy and Roberto Firmino (twice), couldn't beat Vitus Eicher, who saved superbly.

Even in the following passages of play, it was Hoffenheim who had the upper hand. The “Lions” rarely got out of their own half. Hoffenheim were quicker, wanted the ball more and were more determined in the challenge. After 25 minutes, the tempo slowed and understandably so considering the team are still in the preparation phase.

Visitors take the lead, but it doesn't count

The visitors then grew into the game and took the lead with their own free kick, only for the referee to bring the ball back as he hadn't blown his whistle. The lead would certainly have been “undeserved”.

This seemed to stir Hoffenheim into action, as they forced 1860 back into their own half. They couldn't create many chances though, as Eicher enjoyed a slightly quieter period of play than the opening quarter of an hour.

Salihovic breaks the deadlock

In the second half, the flow of the game didn't really change. Hoffenheim had more of the game, kept the opposition in their own half and created good chances. Gisdol's men didn't lose the ball as they created chances and looked fluid in attack. This didn't change despite numerous changes at the break, as is normal in friendlies.

And it was three Hoffenheim substitutes that scored the goals for TSG. Sejad Salihovic drilled in a penalty off the underside of the bar after Kai Herdling was fouled in the area. Sven Schipplock then lashed a low strike into the bottom corner in the 72nd minute to double Hoffenheim's lead. It was all going to plan.

Karaman makes sure

Only eight minutes later, Kenan Karaman put Hoffenheim 3-0 up. He found space on the left-hand side and curled an effort into the far corner. 1860 couldn't keep up during this phase of play as their previously solid defence was unhinged. A deserved victory for Markus Gisdol's men.

Gisdol's side impressed with their collective unity, strong tackling, creativity and drive towards goal. On Sunday afternoon in the same stadium, Hoffenheim have their final friendly when they face Kasimpasa Spor Istanbul from the Turkish Süper Lig.

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