BERLIN (Interstat) — In a stunning collapse at the death of the first half, Union Berlin surrendered a two-goal lead to fall 2-1 to visiting Bochum in a Bundesliga match Sunday at Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

The result, defying pregame projections that heavily favored the home side, handed Union Berlin its second consecutive loss in league play and delivered a vital, morale-boosting victory to a Bochum side that has struggled for consistency this season.

The match turned on a chaotic two-minute span just before halftime. After a physical but scoreless opening 44 minutes, Union Berlin’s Josip Juranović broke the deadlock in the second minute of first-half stoppage time, converting from close range to send the home supporters into celebration. Mere seconds after the restart, Juranović struck again, doubling the lead and seemingly putting Union Berlin in complete control heading into the break.

However, Bochum responded immediately from the ensuing kickoff. Capitalizing on a disorganized Union Berlin defense still celebrating its second goal, Kevin Stöger drove forward and fired a low shot to cut the deficit to 2-1 before the referee could blow for halftime. The goal completely shifted the momentum of the contest.

The second half saw a more composed Bochum side press for an equalizer while Union Berlin failed to reestablish its earlier rhythm. The decisive moment came in the 55th minute when Stöger completed his brace, leveling the score with a well-placed finish. Union Berlin pushed numbers forward in search of a winner in the final half-hour but was unable to break down a resolute Bochum defense, which held firm to secure all three points.

The match was not without its disciplinary incidents. Bochum’s Patrick Osterhage received a yellow card in the 28th minute for a reckless challenge, and Union Berlin’s Paul Jaeckel was booked in the 50th minute for a tactical foul.

The victory marks a significant upset. According to Interstat’s ELO system, Union Berlin entered the match with a 92.80 percent probability to win. Their game simulator had projected a 1-1 draw. Instead, Bochum secured only its first win in the competition this season, improving its record to one win and two losses. Union Berlin’s Bundesliga record now stands at six wins, seven losses and two draws.

In the broader context of all competitions, Bochum’s record moves to six wins, eight losses and two draws. Union Berlin’s overall record is now seven wins, eight losses and three draws.

Looking ahead, Union Berlin will aim to rebound quickly as it hosts RB Leipzig in Bundesliga action next Friday. Bochum, meanwhile, will carry this momentum into a 2. Bundesliga fixture against Borussia M’gladbach next Sunday.