Werder Bremen have made their worst Bundesliga start in nine years as two draws were followed by a 3-2 defeat at promoted Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Werder had playmaker Diego back from the Olympic Games, but the hosts drew first blood in front of 54,067 fans in the Borussia Park as Marko Marin set up Karim Matmour (12) for the opener.
Friend header
Bremen had a lot of possession, but Borussia were way more clinical in front of goal. Rob Friend added a second goal with a well-placed header on the half-hour mark.
Werder's best chance of the opening period saw Claudio Pizarro being denied by home keeper Christofer Heimeroth.
Baumjohann solo run
Alexander Baumjohann seemingly put the result beyond doubt with a sensational solo effort 20 minutes from time.
Late goals from Pizarro (79) and Diego (89) brought Werder back into the tie, but the hosts held on.
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