In a thrilling encounter at the Waldstadion, FC 08 Homburg triumphed over 1. FC Saarbrücken with a 2:1 victory in the semi-final of the Sparkassen-Pokal Saar on May 6, 2025. The match, which drew an impressive crowd of 10,081 spectators, showcased a classic Saar derby filled with intense moments and pivotal performances.
Homburg entered the match with a sense of urgency, having faced a challenging season characterized by inconsistent league performances and a mid-table standing. The pressure was palpable as they aimed to secure a spot in the final, especially after a series of coaching changes and player suspensions. With the memory of their previous season's defeat to Saarbrücken still fresh, the stakes were high.
From the outset, Homburg displayed a determined approach, dominating the first half. Their efforts paid off in the 36th minute when Minos Gouras, who had a standout performance, scored the opening goal. Gouras, assisted by Markus Mendler, capitalized on a well-placed cross to find the back of the net, sending the home fans into a frenzy. This goal was particularly significant as it marked Homburg's first lead in their recent encounters with Saarbrücken, having lost to them in the previous year's Saarlandpokal final.
Homburg's momentum continued as they pressed forward, threatening to extend their lead. Miros Gouras nearly doubled the score in the 27th minute, hitting the crossbar and showcasing Homburg's attacking prowess. Meanwhile, Saarbrücken struggled to find their rhythm, with Julian Günther-Schmidt's attempt in the 31st minute sailing just over the bar, serving as a reminder of their potential but also their frustrations in the first half.
The second half began with a renewed vigor from Saarbrücken, who made a double substitution to inject fresh energy into their attack. The changes initially seemed to pay off as they pushed Homburg back, but it was Homburg who struck next. Just five minutes into the half, Gouras scored again, extending Homburg's lead to 2:0, and putting them in a commanding position.
However, Saarbrücken was not ready to concede. Showing resilience, they responded with a goal from Patrick Schmidt in the 62nd minute, narrowing the deficit to 2:1. This goal reignited hopes for the visitors, who ramped up their offensive efforts in search of an equalizer. The match turned into a nail-biter as both teams exchanged chances, with Homburg's defense holding strong against Saarbrücken's relentless pressure.
Despite the late-game intensity and numerous opportunities for both sides, neither team could find the back of the net again. Homburg's disciplined defense and strategic counter-attacks ultimately secured their place in the final. Their victory not only avenged their previous loss to Saarbrücken but also marked a significant moment in their campaign, as they now look forward to facing FC Palatia Limbach in the final.
The upcoming final, scheduled for May 24, 2025, at the Ludwigspark in Saarbrücken, promises to be an exciting showdown. Homburg will aim to claim the Sparkassen-Pokal title, which would also grant them qualification for the DFB-Pokal, a coveted achievement for the club. Coach Roland Seitz expressed pride in his team's performance, noting that they had invested significantly in this match and deserved their spot in the final.
As the dust settles on this thrilling semi-final, fans are left buzzing with anticipation for the final. Homburg's victory not only serves as a testament to their resilience but also sets the stage for what is sure to be an electrifying match against Palatia Limbach.
