Erikssen's First Goal: Wolfsburg Defeats North Rivals St. Pauli - Wolfsburg snatches late victory in dramatic Bundesliga survival clash
VfL Wolfsburg secured a vital 2–1 win over FC St. Pauli in a tense Bundesliga relegation clash. The victory on January 15, 2026, extended their lead to six points above the relegation playoff spot. A late goal from Dženan Pejčinović sealed the result after a hard-fought northern derby.
The match began with Wolfsburg taking an early lead. Christian Eriksen converted a penalty in the 25th minute, marking his first Bundesliga goal for the club. FC St. Pauli responded fifteen minutes later when Eric Smith levelled the score.
FC St. Pauli entered the game without captain Jackson Irvine, who was sidelined by injury. His absence forced a reshuffle, with Eric Smith stepping into midfield and Adam Dzwigala starting in defence. Irvine’s leadership had been crucial since his return in October 2025, helping end a nine-game losing streak and tightening the team’s midfield structure. The second half saw Wolfsburg struggle to break through despite bringing on Mohammed Amoura. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Kamil Grabara made key saves to keep St. Pauli from taking the lead. In the 88th minute, Pejčinović struck the decisive goal, securing the three points. A brief pause occurred in the second half when a medical emergency in the St. Pauli supporters' section halted play. Medical staff attended to the individual, who was later confirmed to be in a stable condition.
The win gives Wolfsburg breathing room in their fight against relegation. Grabara’s saves and Pejčinović’s late winner proved decisive in a tightly contested match. FC St. Pauli, missing their captain, now face an uphill battle to climb out of the bottom three.
