In a triumphant return to the Bundesliga, Hamburger SV (HSV) secured their promotion after a seven-year absence, culminating in a resounding 6:1 victory over SSV Ulm. The match, held at the sold-out Volksparkstadion, was a celebration of resilience and teamwork, marking a historic moment for the club and its passionate fanbase.
After years of struggle, marked by six failed attempts and numerous managerial changes, HSV finally achieved their long-awaited goal. The team showcased their capabilities, with standout performances from key players, including Davie Selke, who expressed his joy post-match, saying, "In this game, we showed what we are capable of. It was clear that we would win; nothing could shake us today. The atmosphere is incredible, and I’m glad this club is back where it belongs— in the Bundesliga!"
Merlin Polzin, the 34-year-old head coach, who took over as interim manager last November, has become a symbol of hope and success for the club. His contract automatically extends due to the promotion, and he reflected on the achievement with immense pride, stating, "It’s hard to put into words. We are back! This moment is the result of hard work from everyone involved. It’s a very special moment for me and for the club." Polzin, who was once a fan himself, has quickly become a beloved figure among players and supporters alike.
The match began with an unexpected twist when Tom Gaal put Ulm ahead in the 7th minute. However, HSV responded with determination. Ludovit Reis equalized in the 10th minute, setting the stage for a remarkable comeback. Ransford Königsdörffer scored twice (42nd and 62nd minutes), and Selke added another goal just before halftime. An own goal by SSV captain Philipp Stompf in the 50th minute further solidified HSV's dominance, with Daniel Elfadli capping the scoring in the 86th minute.
Goalkeeper Daniel Heuer-Fernandes played a crucial role in the victory, saving a penalty at a pivotal moment when the score was tied at 1-1. His performance was lauded by teammates, with Daniel Heuer Fernandes stating, "The team’s performance was outstanding; we fought hard and remained composed after the setback. I’m so proud of the team!"
Captain Sebastian Schonlau emphasized the unity and spirit within the squad, saying, "This year, we really showed what it means to be a team. After so many near misses in previous years, it had to happen this time. Everyone at the club has done an incredible job. Today, we celebrate this achievement, but we still have our eyes on the title!"
Sportvorstand Stefan Kuntz, who played a pivotal role in assembling the current squad, praised the collective effort of the team and the fans. He noted, "First and foremost, I must commend the performance of the team. The game unfolded as it has all season—there was some anxiety after going down 0-1. But it felt like someone had shaken a bottle of champagne for seven years, and tonight, the cork finally popped!" Kuntz also acknowledged the critical role Polzin played in uniting the team and fostering player development.
The atmosphere in Hamburg was electric as fans celebrated their team's return to the Bundesliga. The city, which had long awaited this moment, witnessed jubilant scenes as supporters stormed the pitch, embracing players and officials alike. Former HSV stars and even current Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany joined in the celebrations, highlighting the club's significance in German football.
As the dust settles on this monumental victory, Kuntz is already looking ahead to the Bundesliga. "We know we need to strengthen the squad for the Bundesliga, and we have set some vague goals for ourselves. Our aim is to establish ourselves and play a good role in the league in the medium term," he stated. The HSV women's team is also on the brink of promotion, with a crucial match against SC Freiburg II scheduled for the following day.
In the wake of this victory, the focus will shift to preparations for the Bundesliga, where HSV aims to not only survive but thrive. The club's rich history and passionate fanbase expect nothing less than a competitive return to the top tier of German football. With the right strategies in place and the momentum of this season's success, HSV is poised to reclaim its status among Germany's football elite.
As the celebrations continue, the message from the HSV camp is clear: the hard work has paid off, and the journey back to the Bundesliga is just the beginning. The club is ready to embrace the challenges ahead, with the hopes of its supporters firmly in their sights.
