Christian Eriksen captained VfL Wolfsburg as they fell 2-1 to SC Paderborn in the playoff’s second leg, sealing the German club’s relegation. Laurin Curda netted the decisive goal in the 10th minute of extra time after Wolfsburg spent most of the match with ten men. The win gave Paderborn a 2-1 aggregate triumph in stunned silence.

Both clubs finished third from bottom in their leagues, forcing a showdown for the final Bundesliga spot. The first leg in Wolfsburg ended 0-0, leaving everything to play for in the return. Paderborn, third in the 2. Bundesliga, saw the atmosphere in their home stadium turn electric as fans celebrated the historic ascent. The victory guarantees their first top‑flight appearance since 2022.

Wolfsburg’s demotion ends a 29‑year stay in the top flight, the first since their 1997 promotion and erases memories of the 2009 title. The loss caps a season plagued by defensive lapses and the inability to convert points, leaving Volkswagen‑backed side to regroup in the second division. Club must also address its aging squad and wage bill.