But Petric added a second for Bruno Labbadia's side with a fantastic overhead kick on 35 minutes.

BBC: Hamburg and Atletico Madrid reach Europa League semis

Despite their erratic league form, Labbadia had led his troops to the verge of a European final.

BBC: Hamburg axe coach Bruno Labbadia

Labbadia had admitted that Sunday's performance was "depressing" but angrily dismissed rumours he had lost the dressing room.

BBC: Hamburg axe coach Bruno Labbadia

Labbadia succeeded former Tottenham boss Martin Jol at the northern German club last summer, enjoying a successful start to the season.

BBC: Hamburg axe coach Bruno Labbadia

"He is incredibly enthusiastic, knows the team and English football well and lives for football, " said Hoffmann of Labbadia's interim replacement.

BBC: Hamburg axe coach Bruno Labbadia

Labbadia rued his side's profligacy in wide positions after that stalemate but remained ultra-confident they could advance in Thursday's return leg at Craven Cottage.

BBC: Hamburg axe coach Bruno Labbadia

After last week's humbling 3-0 defeat to Rapid, Bruno Labbadia's side needed a win to improve their chances of reaching the latter stages of the competition.

CNN: Werder Bremen go clear in Europa Cup group

His opposite number Bruno Labbadia is currently under intense pressure and the 1983 European Cup winners cannot contemplate missing out on the final at their home stadium.

BBC: From the Cottage to the Continent