On February 28, 2025, the 2. Bundesliga will host an exciting match as Fortuna Düsseldorf takes on SpVgg Greuther Fürth at the Merkur Spiel-Arena. Scheduled to kick off at 18:30, this encounter could prove pivotal for both teams, with Düsseldorf fighting for promotion and Fürth aiming to stabilize their position.
Düsseldorf, led by coach Daniel Thioune, currently sits 5th on the league table with 38 points, level on points with the likes of 1. FC Magdeburg and SC Paderborn. A remarkable aspect of their recent performance has been their mental resilience; they have collected 11 out of 38 points late, showcasing their determination even under pressure. Their last outing resulted in a tense 1-1 draw against local rivals 1. FC Köln, where Isak Johannesson scored from the penalty spot during the dying minutes. Coach Thioune hopes to build on their unbeaten home record against Fürth, having never lost to them at home across 14 previous matches (7 wins and 7 draws).
On the other hand, Fürth arrives at the match with some momentum after securing a convincing 3-0 victory against Eintracht Braunschweig, positioning themselves 11th with 29 points. Coach Jan Siewert’s side has had mixed fortunes, winning three out of their last four matches, yet their inconsistency remains apparent, as they have also struggled defensively, conceding 43 goals this season, making it the second-worst defensive record. Siewert must shore up his backline to avoid falling victim to Düsseldorf's attacking prowess.
Historically, this match-up has been fiercely contested. The previous meeting earlier this season saw Düsseldorf win 2-1, but recent confrontations have yielded mixed results, with each team winning two out of the last five matches. Notably, one common trend has been low-scoring first halves, as four of the last five encounters ended 0-0 at halftime. Coaches Thioune and Siewert share hope for improvement, analyzing their respective squads' capabilities and strategies for reaching the playoff spots.
Despite the absence of their top scorer Dawid Kownacki, who is out due to suspension, Düsseldorf remains optimistic with players like Moritz-Broni Kwarteng and Ísak Johannesson stepping up. Johannesson is particularly noteworthy for his standout performances, netting eight goals so far this season and converting four penalties, placing him among the league’s elite penalty takers alongside Fürth’s Julian Green.
For Fürth, Noel Futkeu is also one to watch after his recent scoring form against Braunschweig. He had previously managed to score and assist during the match, showcasing his ability to make significant impacts. Meanwhile, Felix Klaus, who has transitioned from Düsseldorf to Fürth, will look to make his mark against his former side, having already provided three assists since joining the Kleeblatt.
Bookmakers favor Düsseldorf with over 53% probability of winning, but the unpredictability of football means nothing is guaranteed. With defenses susceptible and offensive line-ups boasting talent, expectations run high for this clash. Tight defenses or expansive play could lever either team to capitalize on the other's weaknesses. There’s much at stake, not only for immediate standings but also for momentum as the season nears its conclusion.
Fans can expect the match to be lively, reflecting both teams' need to secure points as pressure mounts. For Düsseldorf, the opportunity to extend their impressive home record and push for promotion is tantalizing. For Fürth, focusing on solidifying their performance away from home could lead them to triumph against the odds.
The match will not be broadcasted on regular TV but will be available to stream on Sky Sports. Fans can also follow the action live through various online platforms. Whether you’re rooting for the home team or cheering for the visitors, all eyes will be on the pitch as fortunes will be tested on both sides this coming Friday evening.