FC Kleve 4-3 Schwarz-Weiss Essen – German Bundesliga 5, 31 May 2026

A thrilling seven-goal encounter in German Bundesliga 5 saw FC Kleve come from behind to beat Schwarz-Weiss Essen 4-3. The match was packed with drama, including a late winner that sent the home fans into raptures.

Match Overview

The game started at a frantic pace, with both teams scoring inside the opening 20 minutes. Schwarz-Weiss Essen took a 3-2 lead into half-time, but Kleve responded superbly after the break, netting twice to snatch the victory. The result was a testament to the home side's character.

Key Moments

• 8' – Goal Kleve: A long-range effort put the hosts ahead early.
• 15' – Goal Essen: A defensive error allowed the visitors to equalise.
• 23' – Goal Kleve: A header from a free-kick restored the lead.
• 35' – Goal Essen: A quick double strike: first a penalty, then a counter-attack made it 3-2 to the visitors by half-time.
• 55' – Goal Kleve: A deflected shot levelled the scores at 3-3.
• 78' – Goal Kleve: A corner was headed home powerfully to make it 4-3.

Tactical Story

Kleve's high pressing caused Essen problems early, but the visitors adapted well. In the second half, Kleve dominated possession and created more chances through wide play. Essen's defence tired, allowing the decisive header.

Season Context

This victory moved FC Kleve closer to the top half of the Bundesliga 5 table, while Schwarz-Weiss Essen remained in mid-table, rueing a lost opportunity.