In the heart of Paderborn, Hannover 96's Louis Schaub (28) looked to make a statement as a tough tackler. On the sidelines, the midfielder delivered a red card-worthy tackle, causing harm to opponent Hoffmeier. After a VAR review, referee Dr. Braun brandished a red card, just 20 minutes into the game.

Red Card Resulting in a Two-Game Ban

The penalty handed down on Monday saw the DFB Disciplinary Committee request a two-match ban for Schaub's "rough play." Hannover 96 complied, meaning the Austrian will be sideline until Santa arrives – missing Friday's clash against KSC and the final game of the year in Kiel (16.12.).

Stefan Leitl (46), Hannover 96's coach, faces a harsh attacking dilemma during the festive season. Schaub's suspension, top scorer Cedric Teuchert (26) missing due to muscle injuries, and striker Nicolo Tresoldi (19) hobbled from training on Monday have left a significant dent in the team's capabilities. Christopher Scott (21) is also sidelined with back pain, while the second-string players haven't seen game time for weeks.

A Blow to Hannover's Attack

Mo Damar (19) last played mid-September, Toni Foti (20) has been out for the latest two months, Kolja Oudenne (22) has been missing for seven games, and Taddel Momuluh (21) has only come off the bench twice after matchday 1. With Sebastian Ernst (28) filling in as Schaub's replacement, some much-needed creativity in the attack might be missing.

The 0:1 defeat in Paderborn wasn't kind to Schaub's teammates, either. Fabian Kunze, the "artist," had a golden chance to take a 1:0 lead, but his clever maneuvers in the box were thwarted by a timely block (78').

The Struggle Continues

• Hannover 96's Lou Schaub receives a two-match ban for a red card.
• Stefan Leitl, coach of Hannover 96, grapples with a dilemma after losing key players like Schaub, Teuchert, and Tresoldi to injuries.
• Schaub's suspension means Hannover 96 will be his absence for matches against KSC on Friday and Kiel on December 16.
• Hannover 96 soon found out that their troubles didn't end with Schaub's suspension. Key players like Mo Damar, Toni Foti, Kolja Oudenne, and Taddel Momuluh also suffered injuries.
• Coach Stefan Leitl needs to find a solution to the attacking problem although Fabian Kunze, Hannover's "painter," had a chance to take a 1:0 lead, but missed it due to a timely block.
• Hannover 96 has been struggling in the 2. Liga, with their recent difficulties highlighted by the suspension of Louis Schaub, the injury of key players, and their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities in their matches.

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Enrichment Data:

For Hannover 96, the injury to top scorer Cedric Teuchert and striker Nicolo Tresoldi, along with Louis Schaub's suspension, leaves the team in a tough spot. However, some promising options could help fill the void:

1. Maximilian Beier: Versatile and adept at scoring goals and creating chances, Beier could be a valuable addition to the attack
2. Linton Maina: Young, dynamic, and full of energy, Maina has shown his potential in various attacking roles.
3. Sebastian Ernst: Skilled winger with a solid understanding of the game, Ernst could provide width and support to the attack during Schaub's absence.
4. Philipp Oehnert: Reliable in providing assists and crucial goals, Oehnert's composure on the field could be essential when facing adversity.
5. Lukas Hinterseer: Primarily a striker, but versatile enough to tackle different roles, Hinterseer could play an integral part in leading the line and boosting the attack.

These players have proven their worth in various games, and their inclusion could offer a fresh perspective to the struggling Hannover 96 team during this difficult period.