Bochum's Comeback Stuns Duesseldorf in Relegation Play-Off

Bochum's remarkable comeback from a three-goal deficit against Fortuna Duesseldorf in the Bundesliga relegation play-off second leg has secured their top-flight status for another season.

Trailing 3-0 from the first leg at home, Bochum's hopes seemed bleak. However, a stunning performance from midfielder Kevin Stoeger ignited their resurgence. Stoeger, who was out of contract, provided two assists before winning and converting a penalty.

Bochum's resurgence began with Stoeger's free-kick delivery, which Philipp Hofmann headed home in the 18th minute. The duo combined again in the second half, with Stoeger's cross finding Hofmann for another header.

Just two minutes later, Stoeger's cross struck Matthias Zimmermann's arm, resulting in a penalty. Stoeger calmly converted from the spot, leveling the tie and silencing the home crowd.

Despite a clear chance for Takuma Asano to win the match in regulation time, the game went into extra time. However, chances were scarce, and the match was decided by a penalty shootout.

Andreas Luthe saved Duesseldorf's first spot-kick, but Florian Kastenmeier kept the hosts in the shootout by saving one of Bochum's. Both teams converted their subsequent penalties until Takashi Uchino blasted his shot over the bar, ensuring Bochum's survival in the top flight.

"We were in such a good position, we were so close, that's why it hurts even more," said Duesseldorf's sporting director Klaus Allofs. "We didn't play well but I don't know why -- we have no idea."

Bochum's counterpart Patrick Fabian expressed his pride in his team's performance. "Incredible, that topped it all off as far as the season is concerned," he said. "I'm incredibly proud of the boys."

Bochum's victory marks the fourth consecutive season they have remained in the top flight. The Bundesliga relegation play-off has historically favored the first-division team, with only three exceptions since its reintroduction in 2008-09.

Tags: #Bundesliga, #RelegationPlayOff, #Bochum, #FortunaDuesseldorf, #KevinStoeger