The FV Illertissen football club is reviving its fairy-tale run in the Toto-Pokal by securing a spot in the final after a compelling victory over FC Ingolstadt on March 22, 2025, at Vöhlinstadion. The match concluded with a 1-0 win for Illertissen, highlighting its remarkable persistence and performance throughout the competition.
In front of approximately 900 spectators, FV Illertissen faced off against the higher-ranked Ingolstadt, demonstrating a tenacious spirit that left a significant mark in the semi-final. Coach Holger Bachthaler expressed joy at his team's performance, stating, “We knew that we would have to work hard defensively.” He further emphasized, “The victory is deserved, and it would be great if the efforts were recognized by more fans.”
The highlight of the match came in the 24th minute when Yannick Glessing netted the only goal of the game, skillfully maneuvering through the opposition’s defense before delivering a powerful shot past FC goalkeeper Marius Funk. Glessing’s efforts were crucial as he led an ailing Ingolstadt side on a run of errors that plagued their defense throughout the game. “We are happy and proud, we showed our character on the field and should have scored a second goal,” shared Glessing, reflecting on his team’s efforts in both attacking and defending.
Despite spending much of the match on the back foot, FC Ingolstadt had moments that could have changed the tide in their favor. The visitors attempted to capitalize on their possession, but the FV Illertissen defense held strong, with goalkeeper Markus Ponath showcasing exemplary reflexes in the dying moments of the game. He made a crucial double save after a corner in injury time that secured the win for Illertissen, effectively snuffing out any hope of an equalizer for Ingolstadt.
Ingolstadt’s coach Sabrina Wittmann noted that her players had enough chances to equalize, but she also acknowledged the sharpness of Illertissen’s gameplay. Her perspective highlighted an intriguing interplay of tactical decisions on both sides, as the game unfolded in a competitive atmosphere reminiscent of previous encounters between these teams.
This latest win takes FV Illertissen into the finals of the Toto-Pokal for the fourth time, having achieved significant recognition as 'Pokalspezialisten', or cup specialists, in the Bavarian cup scene. Their remarkable feat also opens doors to participate in the prestigious DFB-Pokal 2025/26, an achievement the club will relish.
With the final set for May 24, 2025, FV Illertissen is set to face SpVgg Unterhaching, who advanced by defeating Eintracht Bamberg 3-1 in the other semi-final. The upcoming clash is expected to be another challenging encounter, but one where the underdog Illertissen will look to capitalize on their home advantage.
As this small club from Illertissen heads into the final, Bachthaler and his squad are keen to continue their underdog narrative. They hope to attract a larger crowd at the Vöhlinstadion for the final and are determined to leave it all on the pitch. “To be able to play at home increases our chances,” add Glessing, embodying the collective spirit and determination that resounds through the club.
The memories of this recent victory will fuel their ambitions, as they eye not just the trophy but the chance to solidify their place in the Bavarian football narrative. Moreover, the victory against a team they previously struggled against provides a motivational boost for not just the players, but the vast community that supports them.
Ultimately, the FV Illertissen’s journey in this competition is a testament to the power of perseverance, skill, and community spirit, making them a team to watch in the final against SpVgg Unterhaching.
