Wildcats face do-or-die relegation battle after playoff exit
SV UNION Halle-Neustadt Wildcats closed their playoff campaign with a 28:36 defeat against TuS Metzingen. The loss sets the stage for a critical relegation battle against Füchse Berlin next week.
The team now shifts focus entirely to securing survival in the top flight, with two decisive matches ahead. The Wildcats entered the game without Lynn Molenaar and Fabienne Büch, while Marijana Ilic started in goal. Lilli Röpcke and Emma Hertha led Halle’s efforts in the first half, keeping the score tight. Metzingen struggled to pull away, but Halle remained within striking distance before the break.
After halftime, the momentum shifted dramatically. Metzingen scored ten unanswered goals in the opening 12 minutes of the second period, breaking the game open. Coach Ines Seidler used the match to rotate players, ensuring everyone saw court time while managing workloads ahead of the relegation showdown. Tena Petika also saw increased action as the Wildcats adjusted their lineup.
The relegation decider begins with the first leg at Halle’s SWH.arena on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 7:30 PM. Tickets for the home fixture are available through the club’s website or usual presale outlets. The return match will take place in Berlin on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Halle’s defeat to Metzingen marks the end of their playoff run. The team now faces Füchse Berlin in a two-legged tie where only survival in the 1. Alsco Handball Bundesliga Women is at stake. Both matches will determine whether the Wildcats retain their top-flight status for next season.
