The 32-year-old former midfielder wrote her name in Bundesliga history after Union Berlin's win over Darmstadt
In a groundbreaking moment for German football, Marie-Louise Eta etched her name in history on Sunday, becoming the first female coach to lead a Bundesliga team to victory. Eta guided Union Berlin to a significant 1-0 win over Darmstadt in a fixture that marked her debut as the head coach.
18:06 - 21.01.2024
Bundesliga: Harry Kane silenced as sloppy Bayern dealt title blow
Werder Bremen pulled off an upset against Bayern Munich, leaving the reigning champions seven points behind leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the title race.
12:07 - 21.01.2024
Tella sends message to Jose Peseiro and Super Eagles after AFCON snub
Nathan Tella showed Nigeria and Jose Peseiro what they are missing after a super-sub showing for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
The 32-year-old former Germany youth international had previously been appointed as an assistant first-team coach for Union Berlin earlier in the season. However, circumstances led to Eta taking the helm for the Bundesliga strugglers in their home game against bottom-placed Darmstadt, with Nenad Bjelica serving a suspension.
Eta makes historic Bundesliga debut
Eta's inaugural experience as the leader of a Bundesliga side resulted in a 1-0 triumph, secured by Benedict Hollerbach's decisive goal just after the hour mark. Not only did Eta guide Union Berlin to victory on the field, but she also took charge of all pre and post-match media duties, showcasing her comprehensive role in the historic fixture.
A Women's Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam in 2010, Eta had previously worked in the youth set-up at Union Berlin. Her transition to the first-team coaching staff occurred last year, and her ascent to the head coaching position highlights her rapid progress within the football hierarchy.
Eta shows leadership amidst suspension and tough circumstances
Nenad Bjelica's suspension, resulting from an incident involving Bayern Munich's Leroy Sane, paved the way for Eta to lead the team. The German Football Association handed Bjelica a three-game ban for unsporting behavior, providing Eta with the opportunity to make history.
Despite Union Berlin facing a tougher campaign compared to the previous season, Eta's inspirational leadership against Darmstadt propelled the team five points clear of the relegation spots. The victory not only marks a significant moment for Eta personally but also adds a historic chapter to the ongoing evolution of women in football coaching roles.
Related content
14:38 - 18.12.2023
FOOTBALL UEFA Champions League round of 16: Arsenal to play Porto as Atletico Madrid braces for Inter Milan test
Arsenal to play Porto, Inter face Atletico as Napoli play Barcelona in the 2023/2024 UCL round of 16
23:08 - 12.12.2023
Union Berlin vs Real Madrid: Los Blancos survive early scare to down German opposition and keep 100% record
Real Madrid beat Braga to keep a 100% record in the group.
15:20 - 24.01.2024
Bayern Munich remain keen on Newcastle's Trippier despite rejected bids
Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich remain determined to secure the signing of Newcastle defender Kieran Trippier this month.
18:06 - 21.01.2024
Bundesliga: Harry Kane silenced as sloppy Bayern dealt title blow
Werder Bremen pulled off an upset against Bayern Munich, leaving the reigning champions seven points behind leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the title race.
12:07 - 21.01.2024
Tella sends message to Jose Peseiro and Super Eagles after AFCON snub
Nathan Tella showed Nigeria and Jose Peseiro what they are missing after a super-sub showing for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
17:24 - 19.01.2024
Bundesliga matchday 18: Expert betting tips and predictions for the weekend games in the German top division
Expert previews and predictions for the Bundesliga Matchday 18 games.
07:05 - 14.01.2024
Sancho shows Manchester United what they have been missing with assist on Bundesliga debut
Jadon Sancho was back to his brilliant best for Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga after joining BVB on loan from struggling Manchester United
05:57 - 10.01.2024
Victor Boniface: Voting opens for Super Eagles star to claim 5th Rookie of the Month
Nigeria's Victor Boniface has won the last four Rookie of the Month in the Bundesliga and could make it the fifth in a row.
08:44 - 03.01.2024
Jadon Sancho: Man Utd misfit closes in on loan return to Borussia Dortmund
Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund are in negotiations over a deal for Jadon Sancho to return to the Bundesliga club on loan.