Berlin, Dec. 12 -- SC Freiburg strengthened its position in Europe with a 1-0 victory over Salzburg, taking an important step toward the next phase of the UEFA Europa League.
Freiburg gradually asserted control through calm possession and a compact midfield, and the match tilted in its favor midway through the first half when Salzburg forward Petar Ratkov was dismissed for a reckless aerial challenge. The hosts, however, almost conceded before the break when a swift counter-attack ended with a shot skimming past the post.
Freiburg broke the deadlock shortly after the restart when a driven ball from the left confused the area, taking two deflections before Philipp Lienhart nudged it over the line.
The result leaves Freiburg fifth on 14 po...