On March 1, 2025, Hallescher FC delivered a commanding performance, defeating Viktoria Berlin 3-0 at the LEUNA-CHEMIE-STADION, before 5,680 enthusiastic fans. This victory was particularly significant for the team, as they aimed to reduce the gap to the table leaders following their 1-2 loss against Lok Leipzig just days prior.
From the first whistle, Hallescher FC showcased their determination, starting the match with high energy and relentless pressing. Fabrice Hartmann, Serhat Polat, and Manasse Eshele took aim at the goal early, but they faced stiff resistance from Berlin's goalkeeper, Florian Horenburg, who was tested repeatedly. Despite several missed opportunities, it was clear the hosts were fully committed to securing a win.
Hallescher’s persistence paid off when, after 20 minutes, Hartmann found the back of the net following a brilliant counter-attack, launching the home side to a 1-0 lead. This was set up by strong midfield play from skipper Berk İnaler, whose interception led to the swift attack. The goal served as the breakthrough Hallescher had been striving for.
Just before half-time, the HFC doubled their lead. Max Kulke took charge of a free kick from just outside the box and executed it masterfully, sending the ball curling decisively past Horenburg and ensuring the hosts went to the locker room with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Throughout the match, Viktoria Berlin struggled to establish themselves offensively, limited to sporadic attacks and often thwarted by Hallescher’s resolute defense. Infamously, they failed to convert their few chances, rendering them ineffective against the relentless HFC.
The second half echoed the sentiments of the first as Hallescher aimed to solidify their dominance. Eshele found himself one-on-one with Horenburg on multiple occasions but was unable to convert, leaving fans anxious as the game progressed without any goals from him.
Late in the match, the game sealed with Joscha Wosz coming off the bench to score Hallescher’s third goal, assisted beautifully by Jonas Nietfeld. This goal not only showcased the squad's depth but also provided much-needed security, leading to celebrations among the HFC faithful.
This comprehensive victory means Hallescher FC now stands closely behind league leaders, narrowing the gap to nine points with 14 wins to their name this season. Coach Mark Zimmermann expressed satisfaction with the team's response to their previous setback, highlighting their resilience and desire to continue climbing the league table. "Die Chancenverwertung bleibt ein Thema, doch die drei Punkte sind ein wichtiger Schritt im Kampf um die Spitze," he remarked, reflecting on the necessity to improve their finishing as they look forward to upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile, Viktoria Berlin finds themselves struggling, having faced their third consecutive defeat, and they remain dangerously positioned with little success to show this season. Their next match against FC Eilenburg looms, and urgent changes will be necessary to revive their fortunes.
Looking forward, Hallescher FC eagerly anticipates their next challenge as they aim to maintain their upward momentum and fidelity to their winning ways. With their persistent and dominant style of play, the Hallenser appear well-equipped to battle for promotion as the season intensifies.