SC Paderborn Vs VfL Wolfsburg [2–1 AET] – Bundesliga Promotion/Relegation Playoff 2025/2026: Promotion Earned Through Patience – Tactical Analysis

After a goalless draw in the first leg, 2. Bundesliga side SC Paderborn hosted Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg for the second leg of the promotion/relegation playoff.

The contest ended in a 2-1 win for Paderborn after extra time.

Wolfsburg struck early, but were down to 10 men after just 15 minutes, as Joakim Mæhle received a second yellow for a reckless challenge.

The hosts went on to dominate ball possession (67%), total shots (39-8), corner kicks (19-2), and touches in the opposition box (63-14).

The red card heavily influenced the game, as 43% of the play was concentrated in Wolfsburg’s defensive third and just 22% on the opposite end.

Through this tactical analysis, we will discuss how Paderborn created their chances and scored their goals, along with their weaknesses.

SC Paderborn Vs VFL Wolfsburg Lineups & Formations

Let us look at how Ralf Kettemann and Dieter Hecking fielded their squads.