SINSHEIM, Germany (Interstat) — A late goal from substitute Sebastian Müller salvaged a 1-1 draw for Hoffenheim against last-place FT Schweinfurt in a 3. Liga match on Friday at Dietmar-Hopp-Stadion.

The result, which fell far short of pregame projections, did little to aid either side’s ambitions in Germany’s third division. Hoffenheim, competing with a reserve side in this competition, missed a chance to climb the table, while Schweinfurt secured a rare road point in a difficult season.

Interstat’s game simulator had projected a high-scoring 3-2 win for the hosts, with its ELO rating system giving Hoffenheim a 93.4 percent probability of victory. Those forecasts were undone by a disciplined defensive effort from the visitors and a lack of finishing precision from Hoffenheim.

The match’s physical tone was set early, with Schweinfurt defender Kelven Frees receiving a yellow card in the 5th minute. Hoffenheim’s Lukas Trslic was also booked in the 12th minute, one of four cautions issued in the contest.

Against the run of play, Schweinfurt struck first. In the 27th minute, forward Deniz Zeitler finished a play assisted by Frees, the defender making a positive contribution after his earlier booking. The goal gave the visitors a surprising lead they would protect for the next hour.

Hoffenheim controlled possession and created chances but struggled to break down a resolute Schweinfurt defense. The hosts’ frustration grew as the second half wore on, with Schweinfurt seemingly poised to replicate its 2-1 victory from the reverse fixture on Nov. 8, 2025.

The decisive breakthrough finally came from Hoffenheim’s bench. Substitute Lucas Zeller, who would later receive a yellow card in stoppage time, provided the crucial service in the dying moments. His assist found fellow substitute Müller, who scored to level the match and spare Hoffenheim from a damaging home defeat.

The draw leaves Hoffenheim with a record of 10 wins, 11 losses and 4 draws in 3. Liga play this season. Across all competitions, including first-team fixtures, their record stands at 32 wins, 22 losses and 6 draws.

For FT Schweinfurt, the point is a small positive in a campaign of struggle. Their 3. Liga record now sits at 5 wins, 25 losses and 3 draws, leaving them anchored at the bottom of the table. Their overall record across all tournaments is 5 wins, 26 losses and 3 draws.

Hoffenheim’s next match is on April 18 at MSV Duisburg in 3. Liga action. FT Schweinfurt will host Hansa Rostock on the same date, continuing their fight to move off the foot of the table.