FC Energie Cottbus holds firm in 0-0 stalemate against Ingolstadt
FC Energie Cottbus held FC Ingolstadt to a 0-0 draw in a tightly contested 3. Liga match. The result extended Cottbus's unbeaten streak in the second half of the season, thanks in part to a standout performance from goalkeeper Marius Funk.
Cottbus started brightly, with Leon Guwara setting up Erik Engelhardt for the best chance of the first half. Engelhardt's shot, however, drifted wide of the target. Guwara's involvement was cut short later in the game when an injury forced him off the pitch.
After the break, Engelhardt again came close, creating Cottbus's clearest opportunity. At the other end, Funk made several crucial saves, including a remarkable stop with his foot to deny Marcel Costly. Tolcay Cigerci, another Cottbus player, saw his effort blocked by Ingolstadt's Kai Eisele.
New signing Tolga Cigerci, brought in during the late transfer window, was not yet fit enough to play. He is expected to be available for the next home match against SV Waldhof Mannheim on February 15. Mladen Cvjetinovic was named in the squad but did not take to the field.
The draw keeps Cottbus's unbeaten run intact as they continue their push in the 3. Liga. Funk's heroics in goal and a disciplined defensive display ensured the visitors left with a point. Attention now turns to their upcoming fixture at home against SV Waldhof Mannheim.
