In an impressive display of football, MSV Duisburg dominated Oberligist Union Nettetal in the semi-finals of the Niederrheinpokal, winning by a resounding score of 7-0. The match took place on March 22, 2025, at the Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena in Duisburg, and served as a stark illustration of the difference between the two leagues.
Duisburg, leading the Regionalliga West, came into the match with clear intent. Coach Dietmar Hirsch took the competition seriously, expressing, "Der Sieg war heute hochverdient. Für uns war es eine riesige Möglichkeit, ins Finale zu kommen" (The victory was well-deserved today. It was a huge opportunity for us to reach the final).
The game kicked off with an explosive start for Duisburg, as they scored three goals within the first eleven minutes. Thilo Töpken opened the scoring at the 6-minute mark, followed quickly by Jakob Bookjans at 10 minutes, and Maximilian Dittgen at the 11-minute mark, establishing a commanding lead of 3-0 that would stand at halftime.
Union Nettetal, who were battling to avoid relegation in their league, found themselves on the back foot early. However, their resilience was noted by Coach Hirsch, who stated, "Ich muss mich auch bei Nettetal bedanken, dass sie trotz des klaren Ergebnisses immer weiter Fußball gespielt haben und nicht angefangen haben zu treten" (I must also thank Nettetal for continuing to play football despite the clear result and not resorting to kicking).
The second half saw Duisburg continue their relentless push forward. Within the first few minutes of the half, Töpken scored again, netting his second goal at the 48-minute mark. As the game progressed, substitutes helped seal the deal; Steffen Meuer scored at 74 minutes, Jannik Zahmel marked his momentous comeback with a penalty at 79 minutes, and Can Coskun rounded out the scoring at 85 minutes.
Zahmel's return to the pitch was a significant highlight of the match. After enduring a long injury layoff, the 21-year-old made his first appearance of the season and scored decisively, showcasing his abilities as if he had never been away. Hirsch commented on Zahmel’s performance and the emotional impact of his comeback.
The victory secures MSV Duisburg a place in the final of the Niederrheinpokal against Rot-Weiss Essen, scheduled for May 24, 2025. Dittgen expressed excitement about the upcoming match, stating, "Bringen den Kessel zum Kochen" (Let’s get the cauldron boiling), indicating the anticipation surrounding this important fixture.
Supporters from both clubs showed great enthusiasm, with approximately 800 fans expected at the arena. Union Nettetal’s Abteilungsleiter, Dirk Riether, remarked on the community support, revealing that 270 of the 580 tickets sold were allocated for their youth sector, showcasing the camaraderie within the club.
The final match promises to be a thrilling encounter, bringing the promise of a spectacular showdown as Duisburg aims to secure the cup against their opponents while also hoping to build on this commanding performance. The atmosphere at the Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena is set to be electrifying and the community is eagerly awaiting the chance to celebrate a title.
As Duisburg moves forward to the finals, they hope to carry the momentum and spirit demonstrated against Union Nettetal into their next clash, striving to lift the Niederrheinpokal title.
