Absence of Pressure in Elversberg as Promotion Decision Approaches - Anticipation Mounts in Elversberg Ahead of Promotion Decision
Elversberg Coach Undaunted Ahead of Decisive Promotion Match
Coach Horst Steffen remains unfazed as SV Elversberg prepares for the most significant game in the club's history – the relegation return match against 1. FC Heidenheim. The second division team's home game tonight at 8:30 PM (Sat.1 and Sky) could mark their promotion to the Bundesliga for the first time.
"Having the deciding match at home on the final day is fantastic," said Steffen, eager to give their all one last time. A victory – either after 90 minutes, extra time, or a penalty shootout – would propel the Saarlanders into the top tier, making it one of the most notable sports sensations in the Bundesliga's 62-year history.
Steffen remains undeterred by the magnitude of the occasion. "We're looking forward to another great atmosphere here and welcoming our fans to another home game after the championship round," said the 56-year-old coach, with the match already sold out.
The anticipated match promises to be intense, much like the 2:2 draw in the first leg at Heidenheim. Both teams displayed courage and quality in that game, leaving a lasting impression on Steffen's players. "We know it will be just as intense this time," he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high intensity throughout the match.
Personnel concerns linger, with some players battling colds or recovering from injuries. Central defender Lukas Pinckert, sidelined in the away game due to suspension (10th yellow card), is expected to return to the starting lineup. Regardless of the team's composition, Steffen emphasized the team's focus on building on their performance from the first leg.
As of the latest information, the outcome of the relegation return match is still undetermined. The first leg, which took place on May 26, 2025, at Elversberg's Waldstadion Kaiserlinde, ended in a 2-2 draw, with the deciding result anxiously awaited for the final game.
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the labelling of certain foodstuffs, particularly labeling energy values and nutrients in football-themed snacks, considering the enthusiasm surrounding European leagues and the Premier League ahead of major matches such as the one between SV Elversberg and 1. FC Heidenheim. Coach Horst Steffen, with his team a win away from being promoted to the Bundesliga, also encourages fans to exercise and maintain a balanced diet in order to stay in top shape, likening the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle to the intensity and passion required to secure promotion in sports.
