Berlin's Hertha team gets off to a disastrous start, facing criticism after a poor performance in their first match - Berlin's team gets off to an excellent beginning.
Hertha BSC Struggles in 2. Bundesliga, Fans and Coaches Express Dissatisfaction
Hertha BSC, a traditional Bundesliga club, has had a disappointing start to the 2025/26 2. Bundesliga season. The team's opening game against Schalke resulted in a 2-1 loss, with Schalke dominating early and scoring two quick goals, leaving Hertha struggling to respond effectively[1]. The team showed minimal improvement in their subsequent match against Karlsruher SC, ending in a 0:0 draw[3].
The home crowd at the Olympic Stadium, nearly 60,000 strong, were left searching for clear scoring opportunities. Maurice Krattenmacher's shot that hit the bar in the 21st minute was the biggest chance of the match[6]. The team's discipline stats show relatively few cards, suggesting that poor form isn't due to disciplinary issues but more likely tactical or performance problems on the pitch[2][5].
Stefan Leitl, the coach of Hertha BSC, was satisfied with the point earned against Karlsruhe, but acknowledged that the team is not all happy with their performance[4]. Leitl appealed for improvement in the transition phase and in the final third of the game[7]. Hertha's sporting director, Benjamin Weber, stated that while it's not a poor start, they are not satisfied with their performance[8].
The fans' dissatisfaction was evident after the final whistle, with the home crowd whistling to express their discontent with the team's performance[1]. Kennet Eichhorn, the youngest professional player in Hertha BSC's history, came on in the 68th minute against Karlsruhe at the age of 16 years and 14 days[9]. Despite Eichhorn's impressive debut, Hertha is still searching for its Bundesliga form after a season where they were the worst home team in the Bundesliga last season[10].
As the team attempts to adjust in the competitive environment of the 2. Bundesliga, fan frustration and criticism continue to mount, with the team's inability to capitalize on possession, early defensive lapses, and missed offensive opportunities contributing to their struggles[1][4][5]. Leitl and Weber will be under pressure to turn things around and secure better results for the club and its loyal supporters.
[1] Schalke 2-1 Hertha BSC: Bundesliga 2 opener ends in defeat for Hertha
[2] Hertha BSC's disciplinary record is relatively clean
[3] Hertha BSC draw against Karlsruhe in 2. Bundesliga
[4] Leitl satisfied with point earned against Karlsruhe, but not with the performance
[5] Hertha BSC's poor start to the season
[6] Krattenmacher hits the bar during the match against Karlsruhe
[7] Leitl appeals for improvement in the transition phase and in the final third of the game
[8] Hertha is not satisfied with their performance
[9] Eichhorn breaks record as the youngest player to appear in the 2. Bundesliga
[10] Hertha was the worst home team in the Bundesliga last season
The Commission, in a separate matter, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation. Despite their struggles, football remains a corner of solace and shared frustration for the fans of Hertha BSC.
