The BFC Dynamo kicked off the year 2025 with a promising start, defeating Chemie Leipzig 2-0 at the Sportforum Hohenschönhausen on January 7. Although the victory was hard-fought, it was not just the three points on the line; the match served as the launch of the Regionalliga Nordost's first Action Day against Cancer, organized together with Lukas Stern e.V. and the initiative "Football Fans Against Cancer."
Before the match, players from both teams united on the field, holding up a banner to raise awareness about cancer amid the cold conditions, which saw temperatures hover around the freezing mark. The event drew approximately 2,900 spectators, who braved the night to support the cause. BFC Dynamo's captain, Chris Reher, 30, who opted for a special armband emblazoned with the message "Football Fans Against Cancer," expressed his pride for participating. "I think the initiative is outstanding. We should focus more on highlighting such important issues. Although we may not have the same reach as Bundesliga clubs, it's still significant to bring attention to Eastern football," he stated following the match.
The action taken by Dynamo on and off the pitch showcased the team's commitment to social causes within the sport. On the field, they began brightly, with many chances to secure goals early on. Kevin Lankford capitalized on defensive errors from Chemie, scoring the first goal at the 18-minute mark. Meanwhile, Chemie Leipzig struggled to impose themselves throughout the first half and could not convert their opportunities, with Julian Weigel’s near goal denied just before halftime.
BFC Dynamo controlled the early play but faced struggles after Lankford's opening goal, as Chemie improved their performance, creating several opportunities to find the equalizer. Head coach Dennis Kutrieb acknowledged the discomfort experienced by the team during the second half, stating, "We suffered immensely after the break. I wish we had scored the second goal earlier to ease the pressure. But we hung on and worked hard, so I’m proud of the squad."
The tension was palpable as the match approached its end with the score still at 1-0. It wasn’t until the dying moments of the game, where substitute Julian Wießmeier clinched the victory with his goal during stoppage time, securing the match at 2-0. This relief brought cheers from the home crowd and marked a successful start to the year for Dynamo.
On the other side of the pitch, Chemie Leipzig faced yet another tough loss, marking their fifth consecutive defeat. Interims coach David Bergner aimed to reinforce the team's spirit, hoping to reclaim the confidence lost amid their turbulent run. Despite the challenges faced, he noted improvements from the team compared to previous outings. With upcoming fixtures nearing against Hertha Zehlendorf, the team remains hopeful for re-establishing their footing.
Bergner pointed out the importance of adopting stronger tactics for future matches, as they continue to jostle for points and remain determined to rise within the league standings. The highs of Dynamo’s awareness campaign paired with the lows of Chemie's struggles created familiar, yet defining narratives within the Regionalliga Nordost.
The match at Sportforum was not just about football; it transcended the sport as players and fans engaged for a greater cause. Addressing health-related issues like cancer is invaluable, particularly within the arena of sports where visibility can change lives. Further, as communities rally together during such events, the spirit of solidarity strengthens.
The evening's efforts, combined with the action of supporting those affected by cancer, reaffirm the role of sports teams, players, and fans as influential advocates for change. Echoing Reher's sentiments, bringing attention to such issues, especially through platforms like football, offers powerful messages of hope.
Looking forward, the challenges on the pitch must serve as lessons for both the Dynamo and Chemie. If their health campaign's success is combined with improved performances, it could herald bright prospects for all involved.