Hamburger SV made waves in the 2. Bundesliga with a resounding 5-0 victory over Greuther Fürth on December 21, 2024, at Volksparkstadion. The match was characterized by Hamburg's explosive start, as they dominated the game from the opening whistle.
The contest couldn't have started worse for Fürth. Just seconds after the kickoff, Hamburg's Dennis Hadžikadunić found the back of the net with a well-placed header following a corner kick. This quick goal set the tone for the rest of the match, with Hamburg showing no signs of letting up.
Things escalated quickly for the visitors as Hamburg added to their tally just moments later. Davie Selke scored the second goal at the 11-minute mark, followed closely by Adam Karabec's strike at 13 minutes. Within just 13 minutes, the score was already 3-0, leaving Fürth stunned and scrambling to regroup.
"It was unbelievably bad from the start, and it ended just as poorly," said Aufstiegsaspirant defender Marco Meyerhöfer, reflecting the frustrations of the Fürth side. Coach Jan Siewert echoed these sentiments, expressing his anger over the game’s initial phase: "You can see it on my face: there is anger; I am naturally upset about this game and the way we played. We have to forget this disastrous performance quickly."
After their poor start, Fürth had opportunities to get back on track. They created their best chance through Noel Futkeu, who, after receiving the ball inside the box, failed to capitalize on the opportunity, hesitating and allowing Hamburg’s defense to close him down.
Hamburg maintained control as the match progressed, with Fürth backpedaling defensively. Hamburg’s stifling defense and dynamic midfield made it difficult for Fürth to mount any kind of offense. They struggled to get past Hamburg’s solid backline and were left with few chances to score.
The second half mirrored the first, with Hamburg swiftly increasing their lead. Selke scored his second of the match at 59 minutes, sealing the game for the hosts at 4-0. Shortly after, the young 17-year-old Otto Stange took to the pitch and made his mark, scoring the final goal of the match at the 76-minute mark with his first professional goal. With such performances, Hamburg showcased their attacking talent and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
"We want to continue with the current coaching team," said Selke, reflecting the confidence building within the squad under interim coach Merlin Polzin. The team has now gone five matches unbeaten, making their case for consistency as they push for promotion.
Fürth, which had enjoyed recent success with two wins and one draw under Siewert, is left reassessing their tactics after such a crushing defeat. They fall to 13th place with 20 points, whereas Hamburg climbs to second with 28 points. "We lost the game within the first 15 minutes, and that's simply not acceptable," Siewert concluded, acknowledging the steep climb facing his team as they head for the winter break.
The match was especially significant for the Hamburg side, not only for the dramatic scoreline but also historically as it marked their second-highest victory ever recorded in the Bundesliga. This victory positions Hamburg firmly within the promotion race as they look to return to the top tier of German football.
The formidable performance by Hamburg not only reinstates confidence within the squad but also revitalizes hope among their loyal fan base. Going forward, they aim to maintain this momentum as they head back onto the pitch after the break, hoping to keep their promotion dreams alive.
