Tolkin Assisted, Then Subbed Off Injured

Americans on Opposite Sides as Holstein Kiel Edges Gladbach in Bundesliga Thriller

Holstein Kiel secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach in a crucial relegation battle, with American left wing-back John Tolkin playing a key role before exiting with injury. Fellow American Joe Scally had a forgettable outing for the visiting Gladbach side.

Tolkin immediately impacted Kiel, delivering a pinpoint corner kick in the 15th minute that found Shuto Machino, who headed home to give the hosts an early lead. The 22-year-old American looked sharp during his time on the pitch, creating two chances and completing 85% of his passes while contributing defensively with a tackle, a block and three clearances.

Unfortunately, Tolkin's promising performance was cut short in the 41st minute when he took a knock to the head and had to be substituted, with Finn Porath taking his place. By then, Kiel had already doubled their advantage through Alexander Bernhardsson's 23rd-minute strike.

On the opposite side, Scally endured a difficult 90 minutes for Gladbach. The young American right-back struggled to make a positive impact, failing to create any chances despite 64 touches. His crossing was particularly ineffective, with none of his four attempted crosses finding their target. While Scally won five duels and completed 86% of his passes, his overall performance lacked the quality needed as Gladbach's defense conceded four goals.

The match itself was a rollercoaster affair. After Kiel built a 2-0 lead, Gladbach fought back with goals from Tomáš Čvančara and Alassane Pléa to level the score. Armin Gigović restored Kiel's lead in the 76th minute, only for Franck Honorat to equalize again for Gladbach ten minutes later.

The decisive moment came in the first minute of stoppage time when Machino struck his second goal of the match to secure a vital win for Holstein Kiel, moving them off the bottom of the table. With three games remaining, Kiel is now just three points behind the relegation playoff spot, giving them renewed hope in their fight for survival in the Bundesliga.

This gutsy victory could prove pivotal for the Bundesliga debutants, while Gladbach remain in ninth place despite the defeat.