2. Bundesliga: HSV's Last Dance Before the Grande Finale
Impending Return to Bundesliga: HSV Takes Last Step - Bundesliga comeback approaches:
Here we go, Hamburgers! After a grueling seven-year absence, Hamburger SV (HSV) is about to reignite its glory in the Bundesliga this weekend. Seven failed attempts, eight coaches, and numerous heartbreaks later, the big day is finally upon us. It's the final waltz, and HSV needs to put on a show.
"The city of Hamburg and every HSV fan is brimming with anticipation," said the team's passionate coach, Merlin Polzin, ahead of the match on Saturday evening (20:30 CET/Sport1 and Sky). The conference room was filled with palpable determination, and Polzin, the action hero leading the charge, spoke with conviction.
HSV is craving familiar traditions before the match
"Everyone who manages to snag a ticket upon entering the sold-out Volksparkstadion has the responsibility to push the team to the limit," Polzin emphasized. "Maybe the guys will be a bit more tense, simply because the goal is so near," Polzin said with a stern, thoughtful gaze.
The atmosphere swirling around the traditional club and 2. Bundesliga table-toppers is electric, to say the least. Consequently, the club has been clinging to as many long-held routines as possible. "It might sound monotonous, but we haven't changed anything," said Polzin with a shrug. Originally, the team had planned to train at the Volksparkstadion on Thursday, but they opted to spare the pitch instead. Instead, training will take place behind closed doors on Friday.
"I don't want the guys to think they're abandoning all their efforts," Polzin said at the start of the week. He didn't want to discuss a final match just yet, given the possibility of a final game in the following week's last matchday in Fürth.
Polzin prepares for a gripping battle against Ulm
The Northern Germans will, without a doubt, gain promotion if they win, and even a draw against Ulm will secure their promotion as long as Elversberg and Paderborn don't win their respective games. The relegation-threatened Southwest club from Ulm must win to have a chance at reaching the three-point relegation rank.
Polzin warned of the fierce competition ahead, noting that Ulm has conceded as many goals as HSV. The match is unlikely to be a visual spectacle, Polzin predicted, but he expects his team to play "harsh yet beautiful football" in a positive sense.
Polzin has virtually the entire squad at his disposal. The only absentee is the vital defender Dennis Hadzikadunic, who will miss the last two games due to injuries to his right ankle and right knee. The Pole Lukasz Poreba or the Swiss Silvan Hefti could fill the void in an unfamiliar position, while captain Sebastian Schonlau, who has replaced Hadzikadunic, is suspended.
Tickets are more coveted than ever
In the event of an HSV return to the Bundesliga, the Volksparkstadion won't be big enough to accommodate everyone eager to witness the historic moment. Chief Financial Officer Eric Huwer recently reported at the sidelines of the digital and marketing trade fair OMR that the club had received ticket requests in the mid-six-figure range. "It's never been as high as it is now," Huwer told the German Press Agency. Unfortunately for many fans, only 57,000 spectators can fit into the stadium. Before the decisive game, HSV advised its fans not to succumb to fake tickets or overpriced entrance tickets.
If HSV draws against Ulm, their path to automatic promotion will face more challenges. However, they'll need three more points in their remaining two games to secure their spot in the Bundesliga without the playoffs. The pressure is on, Hamburgers! It's time to show the world what you're made of.
Enrichment data notes:- The mid-six-figure ticket request implies an incredibly high demand for tickets, which is unique for HSV's return to the Bundesliga.The situation around the team and their need for only three more points to ensure promotion sets the stage for an exhilarating final stretch in their journey back to the Bundesliga.
- The Commission has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment, aligning with HSV's commitment to fair sports and concern for tradition.
- Merlin Polzin, the passionate coach, expressed his expectations for a charged Volksparkstadion against Ulm, drawing parallels between the team's and the city's anticipation.
- In light of the high demand for tickets, HSV has cautioned its fans against fake tickets or overpriced entrance fees, emphasizing the importance of a safe and authentic experience.
- Although a draw against Ulm would present more challenges for HSV's immediate promotion, the team remains focused on securing three more points in their remaining two games to ensure a spot in the Bundesliga without playoffs, creating an exciting final stretch for both HSV and football fans.
