March: Fast starters and debutants

Review of the year 2023

First Team 24.12.2023, 09:07

Another year is coming to an end: 365 days of both highs and lows, but above all a host of memorable moments for FC Augsburg. It’s time once more to reflect on the past twelve months. In part three of FCA’s review of the year, we look back on March.

FCA secured their fourth home win of the year in their fourth home of the year, running out winners against SV Werder Bremen on matchday 23. Two early goals decided the game in front of a sold-out home crowd: Dion Beljo put FCA ahead in the fifth minute with his first goal for the club. After the visitors drew level in the first half, the hosts made another fast start at the beginning of the second half, with Arne Maier scoring the decisive goal to secure a 2-1 win just after the restart.

FCA then travelled to the Bavarian capital the following weekend. However, Enrico Maaßen’s side came up short in their clash with FC Bayern München and fell to a 5-3 loss despite taking an early lead as well as scoring three of their own goals (Berisha (2), Cardona).

It looked likely for a long time that FC Ausgburg would secure their fifth consecutive home win against FC Schalke 04 on matchday 25. Arne Maier initially put his side ahead in the 51st minute, but FCA were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw after the Royal Blues were awarded and converted a penalty in additional time.

Time with fans and international travels

The first international break of the year followed immediately after that, with ten FCA players away with their respective national teams. Mergim Berisha was called up to the Germany national team for the first time. The attacker made his debut in a friendly against Peru, with national team coach Hansi Flick bringing him on in the 75th minute. He consequently became the fourth FCA player to appear for Germany’s senior side.

A few players spent time with the fans in March at activities organised by fan clubs, such as hiking with alpacas and archery.