# Union Berlin vs. 1. FC Köln: A Close Bundesliga Match
In the latest installment of the Bundesliga, Union Berlin faced off against 1. FC Köln on a Sunday afternoon at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. The match was expected to be tight, given the teams' recent performances and the high level of competition in this division.
### Opening Scoring
The first half began with both teams exchanging possession and creating chances. However, neither team could break through the other's defenses early on. In the 25th minute, Union Berlin's goalkeeper made a crucial save from a dangerous corner kick, keeping the score at 0-0.
### Second Half Begins
The second half saw both teams ramping up their intensity. Union Berlin's attacking midfielder, Michael Becker, had a chance to score but his shot was blocked by Cologne's goalkeeper. In the 60th minute, Cologne managed to break through Union Berlin's defense when striker Lukas Sommer found himself unmarked in the box. He calmly dispatched a shot past Union Berlin's keeper, giving Cologne the lead.
### Late Struggles for Union Berlin
Despite the early deficit, Union Berlin continued to press forward. In the 75th minute, they were awarded a penalty after being fouled in the box. Becker stepped up to take the spotkick, and despite some initial pressure from Cologne's defenders, he coolly placed the ball into the bottom right corner of the net, equalizing the score.
### Substitute Goals
The game entered its final stages with both teams still tied. In the 89th minute, Union Berlin's substitute striker scored a stunning goal. After receiving a pass from Becker, he dribbled past two defenders before firing a low shot into the far corner of the goal, securing a 2-1 victory for Union Berlin.
### Conclusion
This match was marked by intense competition and close scoring throughout. Both teams demonstrated resilience and determination, with Becker's late strike providing the decisive moment for Union Berlin. With this win, Union Berlin moves up to third place in the Bundesliga standings, while Cologne remains fifth. This result is likely to boost Union Berlin's confidence ahead of their next matches and keep them competitive in the league.