As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated match between Hamburger SV (HSV) and SSV Ulm on Saturday, May 10, 2025, excitement is palpable in Hamburg. The Rothosen, having spent the last seven years in the second division, stand on the brink of returning to the Bundesliga, a feat they can achieve with a win against Ulm at the Volksparkstadion, kicking off at 20:30.
HSV’s journey back to the top tier of German football has been a long and arduous one, marked by near misses and heartbreak. After their dramatic relegation in 2018, the club has been striving to reclaim its place among the elite. Now, with a record average attendance of 56,323 fans per home game, the atmosphere is electric as supporters rally behind their team, hoping for a long-awaited promotion.
“This is a home final for us,” said HSV striker Davie Selke after their impressive 4:0 victory against SV Darmstadt 98 last week. “We are united as a team, and we will finish the job.” The victory against Darmstadt laid the groundwork for this crucial match, propelling HSV to the brink of promotion.
However, the stakes are equally high for SSV Ulm, who are fighting to avoid relegation. Currently sitting second to last in the league, the Spatzen need every point they can muster to keep their hopes alive. Following a narrow 1:2 defeat to Hannover 96, Ulm finds itself in a precarious position. A win against HSV is essential for them to maintain any chance of survival.
“We know the importance of this match,” said Ulm coach Robert Lechleiter. “We have to put everything on the line. Every point matters.” The pressure is on as they aim to escape the relegation zone, and the match against HSV presents a daunting challenge.
The match will be broadcast live on Sport1, with coverage starting at 19:30. For those unable to watch on television, the game will also be available on Sky and the streaming service WOW. Fans can follow the action through a live ticker on various platforms, ensuring that no one misses a moment of this pivotal encounter.
In the lead-up to the game, HSV coach Merlin Polzin has emphasized the need for his players to remain focused and composed. “We will not do anything extraordinary this week; we want to maintain a sense of normalcy,” he stated. “The excitement is already there; we don’t need to stoke it further.” Polzin’s approach is aimed at channeling the players’ energy effectively, as they prepare for what he describes as a crucial opportunity.
Despite the excitement, Polzin has cautioned against underestimating their opponents. “Ulm plays a very tough style of football; they can be quite difficult to break down,” he warned. “This will not be a straightforward match.”
In a blow to HSV’s defensive lineup, captain Sebastian Schonlau is suspended due to yellow card accumulation, and Dennis Hadzikadunic is out for the season with a knee injury. Lukasz Poreba is expected to step into the backline alongside Daniel Elfadli. “We have to adapt, but I trust the players to rise to the occasion,” Polzin added.
The Volksparkstadion is expected to be sold out for the eighth consecutive time, contributing to a club record of 14 sell-outs this season. The atmosphere promises to be electrifying, with fans eager to witness their team take a significant step towards promotion. “The city is buzzing with anticipation,” said HSV goalkeeper Daniel Heuer Fernandes. “We can achieve something monumental, and we know our fans will be behind us.”
As the game approaches, the demand for tickets has reached unprecedented levels, with requests in the mid-six-figure range. HSV board member Eric Huwer noted, “This is the highest demand we’ve ever seen. Everyone wants to be a part of this historic moment.”
Fans are not just excited about the potential for promotion; they are also aware of the challenges that lie ahead. “We have to stay grounded,” said HSV captain Schonlau. “This is just one game, and we need to focus on getting the points we need.” His words reflect the collective mindset of the team as they prepare for the momentous clash.
Ulm’s situation is equally dire, as they face the possibility of relegation if they fail to secure points against HSV. The Spatzen must win to keep their hopes alive, and they will be looking to capitalize on any mistakes made by the home side. “We have to fight for every ball and every point,” said Ulm’s midfielder. “This is our chance to turn our season around.”
The match not only holds significant implications for both teams but also for the fans and the city of Hamburg. The excitement surrounding the potential promotion has led to various celebrations planned across the city, with many supporters hopeful for a joyous occasion.
As the kickoff time approaches, the anticipation builds. Will HSV finally end their seven-year wait for Bundesliga football, or will Ulm pull off an upset to keep their survival hopes alive? One thing is certain: the tension and excitement in Hamburg are at an all-time high.
With everything on the line, both teams will need to bring their best to the pitch. As the players prepare to step onto the field, the roar of the crowd will serve as a reminder of what is at stake. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter that promises to deliver drama, passion, and the beautiful game at its finest.
