Harmless Magdeburg draw 0-0 in Hanover

No goal, just one point: 1. FC Magdeburg are treading water in the 2nd Bundesliga with a 0-0 draw at Hannover 96. A lack of determination in finishing and numerous sticking errors prevented a Magdeburg success. However, with 43 points, FCM remain within sight of the promotion zone.

"I think it's a fair draw. They had very good chances from set-pieces, we lacked the final consistency. Nevertheless, we'll take a point from such a strong opponent here," analyzed Baris Atik on Sky after the match.

Coach Christian Titz returned to his usual central defence in Hannover - Daniel Heber returned after his yellow card suspension. Philipp Hercher replaced Frenchman Samuel Loric on the wing.

The game began with a festival of chances for the hosts: First Dominik Reimann saved a ball that had slipped through with a foot reflex (2nd), then Hercher cleared on the line (4th), before Reimann was right again (4th).

Stormy start, flattening game

Magdeburg's goalkeeper Martijn Kaars had the first shot on target (7'), but the ball was not dangerous. Magdeburg gained control of the game as the match wore on, but lacked determination in attack. FCM appeared too playful and too often missed the moment to finish. Hannover were more determined, but acted cautiously overall. It remained goalless at the break.

The second half also began with a good chance for the hosts, but Enzo Leopold aimed over the goal from twelve meters (47'). At the other end, Magdeburg combined nicely, but Alexander Nollenberger's shot was blocked (54'). Otherwise, the picture from the first half largely continued: Magdeburg remained too ornate, Hannover were now a little more offensive and continued to be more determined.

Lots of running, little danger

The FCM were lucky when Hannover's Phil Neumann was played clear, but hit the crossbar with the ball in front of Reimann (63'). Although both teams looked for the way to goal, it was rarely really dangerous - also because the FCM could not decide to finish, even when the Titz protégés got into the opponent's penalty area.

Hannover had the better opportunities throughout the game, but could not put the ball in the net like the FCM. The result was a draw that was of little use to either side in the battle for promotion to the Bundesliga.