DFB-Pokal's scheduling under fire from Kiel's head coach, Rapp - DFB Cup under fire as Kiel's head coach Rapp voices criticism
Holstein Kiel Faces Early Kick-Off in DFB-Pokal Game Against FC 08 Homburg
Holstein Kiel's coach, Marcel Rapp, has voiced his concerns about the kick-off time for the upcoming DFB-Pokal game against FC 08 Homburg. The match, scheduled for Sunday at 11 a.m., is taking place in the Southwest region league.
Rapp believes that an early kick-off is not ideal for Holstein Kiel's fans, as it restricts their ability to travel and enjoy the match without inconvenience. He emphasized the importance of fans' presence and atmosphere, implying that such early scheduling undermines this aspect for the supporters.
In recent years, Holstein Kiel has shown increased travel enthusiasm, with the guest block always full for away games. Approximately 800 fans will accompany Holstein Kiel to Saarland on Sunday.
However, the team has experienced two defeats in the first two games of the DFB-Pokal. The first half of the game against Arminia Bielefeld last Saturday left coach Rapp and the team a bit clueless.
Despite these challenges, Rapp does not expect to find a solution for the team's issues. In training this week, the team's performance was discussed in an effort to improve their form ahead of the match against Homburg.
Holstein Kiel is a Bundesliga relegated team in the second division, and Rapp finds the kick-off time unfortunate, as it is in the evening. He expressed regret that more fans might have attended if the game were during the day.
Holstein Kiel will play against FC 08 Homburg in the DFB-Pokal first round on Sunday at 6:00 PM local time. The team will be hoping to turn their recent fortunes around and secure a victory in front of their travelling supporters.
The Commission, amidst the concerns of football coaches regarding fans' travel and the importance of their presence, 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 the health and safety of sports enthusiasts from the risks arising from exposure to time constraints, such as those experienced by Holstein Kiel fans with the team's early kick-offs in football leagues like the DFB-Pokal.
In contrast, European-leagues football matches, often scheduled in the evening hours, may see higher fan attendance due to the feasibility of travel and more convenient timings, creating a more vibrant atmosphere for the teams and their supporters.
