After a strong fight against TSG Hoffenheim, SV Rödinghausen has been eliminated from the DFB Cup. Managing director Alexander Müller is proud.
Regional league team SV Rödinghausen narrowly missed out on a sensation. In the first round of the DFB Cup against TSG Hoffenheim, it looked like a penalty shootout until shortly before the end of extra time, before Ozan Kabak (115th) and Grischa Prömel (118th) scored late to put the favourites through to the next round.
The Rödinghausen team’s disappointment was understandable after the strong fight, but with a day’s distance, only one feeling prevailed. “We are just incredibly proud,” describes sporting director Alexander Müller. “Of course we were disappointed at the end that it wasn’t enough for the penalty shootout, but we played a super game.”
Against Hoffenheim, Rödinghausen sold themselves more than dearly and did not hide in their own half at all. “We defended passionately and consistently, but also courageously looked for the way forward again and again. We made it extremely difficult for a good Bundesliga team,” Müller praised the team. “Everyone who came in from the bench also played a super game. Tiago Estevao in goal made a sensational save.” The young Portuguese had to go between the posts in the second period after Leon Tigges had to leave the field injured (as did Damjan Marceta in the opening phase).
Third appearance, third overtime
Third time the Rödinghausers had entered the DFB-Pokal, in 2018/19 they narrowly failed to beat FC Bayern Munich in the second round after Dynamo Dresden had previously been eliminated after extra time at SVR. The following year, SC Paderborn were only too strong from the spot. “The game was once again a great experience. All our DFB Cup games have been exciting and great for the spectators in Rödinghausen,” Müller shows all his pride and sees the club vindicated. “This is proof of our good work.”
Now it’s back to everyday life in the Regionalliga West for the Rödinghausers. “For us, it’s already Friday, and Fortuna Cologne is a really good opponent,” Müller assesses the upcoming opponent. “But we have seen: We have enormous quality in our squad.” On Friday (5 August), the SVR will play at Cologne’s Südstadion from 7 p.m. onwards.