The German international climbed high to nod home Anthony Jung’s corner and give the home side a deserved lead after a bright start.
Frankfurt, who reached the semi-finals of last season’s Champions League, failed to impose themselves on the game and were second best throughout as Bremen pressed high and caused the visitors plenty of problems.
Bremen could have added to their lead in the second half but were denied by a combination of poor finishing and fine goalkeeping by Kevin Trapp.
Frankfurt, who had not lost in their previous six competitive games, improved slightly as the game wore on but they lacked creativity and were unable to create clear-cut chances.
The draw leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the second leg at the Deutsche Bank Park next week.
Watch the highlights of the match below:
Kind regards F. Nieborak.