Eintracht Frankfurt’s winless streak stretched to nine matches in all competitions as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Union Berlin in Albert Riera’s first game in charge.

Frankfurt, who had conceded at least twice in each of their seven matches in 2026, knew they needed a strong start at a lively Stadion An der Alten Forsterei. The match was briefly halted early on due to pyrotechnics from home supporters celebrating the club’s 60th anniversary, but the interruption did little to affect the visitors’ early rhythm.

Riera’s side controlled possession from the outset and came close to taking the lead when Arnaud Kalimuendo fired a powerful cross-shot across the face of goal. Union gradually grew into the contest as the first half progressed, with Aljoscha Kemlein forcing Kaua Santos into a fine save from distance.

That proved to be the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock before the interval, as both defences remained solid in a cautious opening period.

Frankfurt continued to dominate the ball after the restart and passed up a golden opportunity when Oscar Højlund dragged his effort wide from close range following a clever lay-off from Kalimuendo. Despite their control, it was Union who nearly struck first when Derrick Köhn rattled the near post with a fierce angled drive.

Relieved by that escape, Frankfurt finally made their pressure count in the 84th minute. Nathaniel Brown reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and unleashed a superb left-footed strike into the corner, leaving Frederik Rønnow with no chance.

However, Frankfurt’s lead lasted only a few minutes. Højlund conceded a penalty after colliding with Rani Khedira in the box and was shown a second yellow card. Leopold Querfeld stepped up and converted from the spot, with his effort squeezing through Santos to restore parity.

With a numerical advantage in the closing stages, Union pushed for a winner, but substitute Andrej Ilić wasted their best chance by firing wide from close range.

The draw extended Frankfurt’s difficult run under their new manager, while Union’s own winless start to 2026 continued, now stretching to six matches.