On February 23, 2025, Energie Cottbus faced an unexpected defeat against VfB Stuttgart II, losing 2-0 at the WIRmachenDruck-Arena, Aspach. This marked the end of Cottbus' impressive unbeaten run, which had lasted since early November. Despite this loss, the team remains at the top of the 3. Liga standings with 48 points, maintaining an eight-point lead over fourth-placed Arminia Bielefeld.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to make their mark, but it was initially Stuttgart's U21 side who seemed to take control. Cottbus, under the leadership of coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz, missed several scoring opportunities. The first half saw Cottbus' Erik Tallig, starting for the first time since returning from multiple cruciate ligament injuries, nearly score after his header struck the crossbar.
Cottbus had their goalkeeper, Elias Bethke, to thank for keeping the score level as he made several decisive saves during the first half. Early on, he showcased his skills by stopping powerful shots from Stuttgart's Thomas Kastanaras and Luca Mack, denying the home side any advantage. Yet, as the game progressed, concerns grew over Bethke's well-being when he required treatment for an injury during the second half.
Although Cottbus sent several shots toward goal, including attempts from Phil Halbauer and Tolcay Cigerci, Stuttgart's goalkeeper Dennis Seimen excelled, parrying away the shots convincingly. The first half ended goalless, but tension built as both sides sought the opening goal.
The second half began without immediate changes from Cottbus, but as time passed, the pressure mounted. Cottbus struggled to replicate their scoring opportunities, and it was Stuttgart who finally broke the deadlock. Wahid Faghir, who had been introduced as a substitute, scored the first goal after receiving the ball from Laurin Ulrich. Faghir skillfully maneuvered around the stationary Bethke to find the back of the net, sending the Stuttgart supporters wild.
Despite Cottbus' attempts to respond, including substitutions to bolster their attacking options, they were unable to find any rhythm or capitalize on their chances. Faghir struck again deep in stoppage time, sealing the victory with another well-placed shot as Cottbus defenders faltered.
This defeat was particularly bitter, not only because it interrupted Cottbus' unbeaten streak but also because they failed to extend their lead at the top of the table, even as closest rivals Dynamo Dresden lost their match against Hansa Rostock.
Wollitz's team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next challenge. Cottbus is set to host VfL Osnabrück at the LEAG Energie Stadium next Saturday, with fans eager to see if their team can bounce back and regain momentum. While disappointment filled the dressing room after the match, Cottbus’ overall position gives them room to focus on what lies ahead. The team will need to address their lapses during the match to remain strong contenders for promotion.