Following a 1-1 Bundesliga draw against St. Pauli on Easter Sunday, both head coaches expressed contentment with the shared points. For Steffen Baumgart’s Union Berlin, this result marked a significant step towards securing their top-flight status. Now positioned 10th with 32 points, merely one more victory over their final six league matches would guarantee another season of Bundesliga football for the Köpenick club.
Baumgart’s team has faced substantial criticism, having managed only two wins in 13 league appearances during the current calendar year. Some German media outlets had even labeled them as potential candidates for the relegation battle. However, many observers recognized their secure league standing, understanding that Union was never truly in danger of dropping divisions.
During his post-match interview, Baumgart grew slightly defensive, accurately pointing out that his club’s situation was far more favorable than their opponents’. St. Pauli, in contrast, faces much greater pressure, currently trailing Union by seven points and occupying the promotion-relegation playoff spot. Coach Alexander Blessin’s palpable stress was evident after their recent home defeat to Freiburg.
Meanwhile, Union could achieve the widely accepted Bundesliga safety threshold of 35 points with an away win against Heidenheim next week. “Die Eisernen” also have fixtures against Wolfsburg, Köln, Mainz, and Augsburg remaining before the 2025/26 campaign concludes. Securing safety through three draws also remains a distinct possibility. Baumgart referenced this and defended his team’s often pragmatic playing style during his interview.
Steffen Baumgart on Union Berlin’s Strategic Approach
“I’m relatively certain that every opponent knows they don’t enjoy playing against us because we employ simple and clear methods,” Baumgart stated. “Football isn’t solely about slick back-heels and intricate one-two-three passing. Football is fundamentally a combat sport defined by intensity, a willingness to run, and individual battles. Both teams displayed that today, and it’s hard for me not to be satisfied.”
Baumgart Declares Union Safe from Relegation
“The 1-1 draw can be considered a ‘partial success,’ as it maintains our gap with St. Pauli,” Baumgart commented. “The result is neither monumental nor insignificant. I’m proud of my players for their bravery in securing the equalizer. Every game brings us closer to our objective. With each passing matchday, there are fewer points remaining, particularly for the clubs behind us.”
“I find that interesting,” Baumgart continued, reflecting on the relegation discussion. “It’s as if people aren’t consulting the standings or counting the points. I examine the league table, the upcoming fixtures, and who plays whom. St. Pauli faces Bayern next week, while we aim to secure a win in Heidenheim. We are in a highly advantageous position.”
