Hertha BSC is set to face 1. FC Nürnberg on February 21, 2025, as part of an important encounter on the 23rd matchday of the 2. Bundesliga at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This match holds significant weight for both teams as Hertha looks to overcome their recent struggles and improve their standings.
After having suffered four consecutive defeats, Hertha BSC is desperate for points. The team recently parted ways with head coach Cristian Fiél following their 1-2 loss to Fortuna Düsseldorf. Sporting director Benjamin Weber revealed it was not an easy decision, emphasizing the need for change as the club finds itself perilously close to the relegation zone.
Stefan Leitl now takes the helm at Hertha, marking his debut as head coach. He faces the formidable task of turning around the club's fortunes against 1. FC Nürnberg, who come off the back of strong performances. Under the leadership of Miroslav Klose, Nürnberg has gained momentum, winning five of their last six matches, which positions them as strong contenders for promotion.
Historically, Hertha has struggled against Nürnberg, winning only once out of their previous nine encounters, including this season’s earlier match where they secured a narrow 2-0 victory. With such statistics amplifying the pressure, this clash is quite pivotal for Hertha if they hope to avoid setting records for their most extended losing streak, which currently stands at four losses.
The match will not be available on free TV, which raises the stakes for fans hoping to witness the action. It will be broadcast live on Sky TV, with pre-game coverage starting at 18:00, allowing fans to gather insights before the 18:30 kickoff.
Leitl hopes to replicate his previous success against Nürnberg, where he has remained unbeaten with six wins and five draws across eleven meetings. An early goal could be integral to bolstering Hertha's confidence, particularly considering their pressing need for remedying recent dismal performances.
On the other hand, Nürnberg is on the rise, featuring the league's youngest squad with an average age of just over 24 years. The team has been explosive offensively, particularly during the late moments of matches where many of their goals have been scored this season, showcasing their ability to maintain intensity and finish high.
Key players to watch include Hertha’s Fabian Reese, who scored his first goal of the season recently and will aim for another to help his team break free of their funk. Meanwhile, Janis Atiste from Nürnberg, the winter signing, has already made waves as their 18th different scorer this season.
Fans can follow the live action through various platforms, including live coverage on Sky and live commentary on SPORT1. The atmosphere at the Olympiastadion is expected to be electric, with around 40,000 supporters expected to attend this significant encounter, as the pressure mounts for both sides.
This match is not just about points; it reflects the current state of both clubs. Can Hertha BSC turn their luck around and avoid the drop, or will 1. FC Nürnberg continue their resurgence and push to climb the league standings? All eyes will be on the pitch as the whistle blows and the battle for three points commences.