🏆 Bundesliga 2's DFB Cup Dreams: Hertha's Unwavering Focus 🍎
Hertha BSC, currently playing in the second division, isn't letting their division status dampen their aspirations of reaching the DFB Cup final. However, ahead of their round of 16 match against Hamburger SV (HSV), coach Pal Dardai emphasizes that they're keeping their dreams small. "I've been here for almost 30 years, I've stopped dreaming. We're just working as hard as we can and don't want to promise anything," says Dardai, leaving the goalposts clear for this Wednesday night's game at Berlin's Olympiastadion (8.45pm/Sky).
Sporting director Benjamin Weber shares a similar sentiment with DPA. "We're not thinking that far ahead. All that matters to us is the game against HSV," Weber says, while highlighting their excitement for the home game's potential 55,000 spectators, floodlit atmosphere, and chance to stay in the cup throughout the winter. The competition is currently down to six first division teams with defending champions RB Leipzig and record winners Bayern Munich out.
Berliners dream of seeing their professional team compete in the final at their Olympic Stadium. Back in 1993, the celebrated Amateur team did just that, but lost 1:0 to Bayer Leverkusen. The professionals last reached the semi-finals in 2016. With the tournament's final match traditionally held in Berlin since 1985, a win against league rivals HSV would serve as a significant confidence boost and look forward to that dream of playing at home.
Winning against HSV would also yield significant financial gains for the cash-strapped capital city club. The quarter-finals offer 1,724,800 euros, while the four semi-finalists receive a hefty sum of 3,449,600 euros. Additionally, Hertha BSC seeks to make a sporting point following their 3-0 league defeat against HSV back in August.
Recalling a common bond between the two cities, Dardai comments, "There will once again be a great crowd at the Olympiastadion and we want to show that we have developed as a team compared to the league game in August." The 43-year-old Weber wants the team to right the wrong, saying, "Our victory against HSV would be a threshold-crossing event for both the team and our fans. We're eager to turn this loss into a significant turning point in our season."
Hertha's Driving Forces 🎯
The quest for advancement in the DFB Cup isn't only fueled by the dream of playing at home and financial gains. Here are additional motivators:
- Competitive Spirit: Established teams like Hertha BSC relish the challenge of competing against top-tier clubs and potentially gaining significant prestige and bragging rights.
- Team Boost: A deep run in the DFB Cup can serve as much-needed motivation for the team, fueling improved performances in league matches as well.
- Historical Context: The club's previous successes in the DFB Cup, like their semi-finals run in 2005-06, can push the current team to aim for similar feats.
Gearing Up for the Match 🤜🤛
Hertha BSC enthusiasts can track their progress through their Instagram and official website, with HSV supporters following their team's journey on their respective platforms. The match against HSV is more than just a rivalry – it's an opportunity for Hertha BSC to demonstrate their progress, aim for financial gains and hope to claim a spot in the DFB Cup final at home. Whatever the outcome, they're determined to give their all and leave nothing on the table.
