Hamburg (dpa) — Hamburger SV showcased a commanding performance on March 9, 2025, defeating Fortuna Düsseldorf 4:1 at the Volksparkstadion. With this win, HSV successfully defended its lead at the top of the 2. Bundesliga, ensuring they remain competitive for promotion.
The match kicked off at 20:30 local time and began positively for the home team. Miro Muheim opened the scoring for HSV early, netting the first goal just seven minutes after the whistle with an impressive shot from 28 meters (approximately 92 feet) out. His early strike set the tone for the match, leaving Düsseldorf struggling to catch up.
Despite Muheim's early goal, Fortuna Düsseldorf managed to find the equalizer when Dawid Kownacki scored the lone goal for the visitors at the 18th minute. This moment was surprising as it came from Düsseldorf's first shot on target, which was against the run of play, considering HSV's dominant start. Nonetheless, the home side quickly regained their composure and looked determined to retake the lead.
Just before halftime, the Hamburg team’s star striker, Davie Selke, capitalized on their pressure to restore their lead with his 17th goal of the season. The goal came right after missed opportunities from Adam Karabec and Ludovit Reis, who both came close to scoring prior. Selke's strike meant Hamburg went to the dressing room with a 2:1 lead.
The second half saw Fortuna Düsseldorf attempt to increase their attacking efforts, which initially appeared promising. Still, Hamburg’s defense held strong and continued to create offensive opportunities. Isak Jóhannesson even attempted to score from 40 meters but missed the target. This was indicative of Düsseldorf's challenges, as they struggled to convert their chances against HSV's solid backline.
Adam Karabec contributed to the scoring once again, finding the net at the 66th minute, extending Hamburg's lead to 3:1. The goal was particularly notable as it came from the rebound off the post, which fortuitously ricocheted off Düsseldorf goalkeeper Florian Kastenmeier and slid across the goal line.
If there was any doubt left about the match's outcome, substitute Otto Stange sealed the deal with another goal during stoppage time, bringing the final score to 4:1. The crowd of 57,000 erupted with excitement, celebrating not only the goals but also the dominance their team exhibited on the field.
This victory places Hamburger SV firmly at the top of the 2. Bundesliga table with 42 points and a goal difference of 51:31, just one point clear of 1. FC Köln. For Fortuna Düsseldorf, the loss marks another setback as they strive to stay competitive for promotion, currently standing seventh with 38 points and 41:34 goals.
The match was particularly significant for HSV’s head coach, Merlin Polzin. It was not only about the win; it was also about clashing against his mentor, Daniel Thioune, who coached HSV during the 2020/2021 season. Polzin’s team performance echoed the strategies put forth by Thioune, exhibiting disciplined play and cohesive teamwork.
Despite the result, Fortuna Düsseldorf will look to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming matches. They need to bounce back quickly to maintain any hopes of promotion. The next match fixtures for the Bundesliga on March 9, 2025, include challenges for both teams: Hannover 96 will face Eintracht Braunschweig, Preußen Münster will take on 1. FC Nürnberg, and Jahn Regensburg will play against SC Paderborn.
This high-stakes environment surrounding the 2. Bundesliga continues to promise more thrilling encounters as teams vie for promotion. Fans will eagerly anticipate how both Hamburger SV and Fortuna Düsseldorf position themselves as the season progresses. HSV remains unbeaten at home this season, showcasing their strength and resilience, which will be tested against their future rivals.