BERLIN – A Bundesliga match between Union Berlin and Eintracht Frankfurt was briefly halted on Friday, February 6, 2026, as Union Berlin supporters celebrated the club’s 60th anniversary with a display of flares. The incident occurred during the game at Alten Forsterei in Berlin, forcing a temporary suspension of play.
While the celebratory atmosphere was evident, the use of pyrotechnics triggered a pause in the match as officials ensured the safety of players and spectators. The BBC provided live coverage of the game, noting the interruption. The match resumed after a short delay, but the incident underscored the passionate, if sometimes disruptive, support base of Union Berlin.
Both teams entered the fixture grappling with recent struggles. Union Berlin, despite a historic 4-3 victory at Eintracht Frankfurt earlier in the season, found themselves in a league slump, winless in their previous five Bundesliga matches. Their home form had been particularly concerning, with only three league wins at Alten Forsterei all season, the last coming in mid-December against RB Leipzig. The need for a return to winning ways was acutely felt, especially given their precarious position in the league table.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s campaign had been equally challenging. Eliminated from both the Champions League and the DFB-Pokal, they were also without a win in their last six Bundesliga outings, accumulating only three points from a possible 18. A significant issue for Frankfurt had been their defensive vulnerabilities, conceding a joint-high number of goals in the division alongside Heidenheim. Securing an away clean sheet, something they hadn’t managed this season, was a key objective.
The historical record between the two sides favored Eintracht Frankfurt, with ten wins in 21 encounters across all competitions. However, recent meetings had tilted in Union Berlin’s favor, remaining unbeaten in their last four matches against Frankfurt. That September 21, 2025, encounter, a thrilling 3-4 victory for Union Berlin at Deutsche Bank Park, demonstrated their ability to overcome Frankfurt even when playing away from home. That match, as reported by ESPN, was a high-scoring affair, suggesting a potential for goals in this latest installment.
The contrasting fortunes of the two clubs highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Bundesliga. Union Berlin, traditionally a club built on strong community ties and a fervent fanbase, were facing the challenge of maintaining their competitive edge after a period of relative success. Eintracht Frankfurt, a club with a rich European history, were struggling to translate their pedigree into consistent league performance.
The match represented more than just three points for either side. For Union Berlin, it was an opportunity to reignite their season and appease their demanding supporters. For Eintracht Frankfurt, it was a chance to halt their downward spiral and begin a climb back up the Bundesliga table. The pressure was particularly acute for Frankfurt, given their early exits from cup competitions and their struggles to find defensive stability.
Flashscore.com provided a detailed overview of the Eintracht Frankfurt squad, listing players and their recent appearances. Notable players included Michy Batshuayi, who had recently been sidelined with a foot injury, and Mario Götze. The availability of key players would undoubtedly influence the tactical approaches of both managers.
The game also carried implications for the relegation battle. Union Berlin, while not currently in the drop zone, were acutely aware of the need to accumulate points to avoid being drawn into a fight for survival. A victory over Frankfurt would provide a significant boost to their confidence and distance them from the bottom of the table.
The incident with the flares, while disruptive, served as a reminder of the passionate atmosphere that characterizes Bundesliga matches. Union Berlin’s supporters are known for their unwavering loyalty and their willingness to create a vibrant spectacle at Alten Forsterei. However, the club will likely face scrutiny from league officials regarding the use of pyrotechnics, potentially leading to sanctions.
the match between Union Berlin and Eintracht Frankfurt was a clash of two teams desperate for positive results. The historical context, recent form, and the passionate support of both fan bases combined to create a compelling encounter in the heart of Berlin. The interruption caused by the flares added an unexpected element to the game, but the focus remained firmly on the battle for Bundesliga points.
On March 9, 2025, Union Berlin secured an unlikely 2-1 win at Eintracht Frankfurt, with goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow proving to be the hero by saving a last-minute penalty. Goals from Leopold Querfeld and Wooyeong Jeong secured the victory for Union Berlin, while Michy Batshuayi scored for Frankfurt. This result demonstrated Union Berlin’s ability to compete with Frankfurt, even on their opponent’s home turf.
