In a tightly contested first leg of the Bundesliga promotion/relegation playoffs, VfL Wolfsburg and SC Paderborn fought to a scoreless draw on Thursday. The outcome leaves the fate of the final Bundesliga spot hanging in the balance ahead of the decisive second leg.

The match, played at Volkswagen Arena, saw both teams battle fiercely for control. Wolfsburg, sitting in 16th place with 29 points from 34 games, dominated possession but failed to convert their chances against a resolute Paderborn defense. The visitors, currently third in the 2. Bundesliga, will travel back to their home ground with a clean sheet and renewed hope of securing promotion to Germany’s top flight for the first time since 2020.

The stakes for both clubs

The stakes couldn’t be higher for both sides. Wolfsburg, a historic club with a rich pedigree in German football, has been a Bundesliga mainstay since 1997. The Wolves have claimed the Bundesliga title in 2009 and reached the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals in 2016. Their ranks have included world-class talents such as Kevin De Bruyne, who dazzled during the 2014–15 season.

For Paderborn, this is more than just a playoff match—it’s a shot at returning to the elite level of German football. After finishing third in the second division, the team is one step away from the Bundesliga dream that last materialized six years ago.

What to expect in the return leg

With the tie level at 0–0, the second leg promises high drama. Paderborn will need to capitalize on their away performance, while Wolfsburg will be under intense pressure to break down a stubborn defense. The return match is scheduled for May 25 at 20:30 local time, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this high-stakes playoff duel.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter