SV Waldhof celebrates a successful 2-0 win in Holtz's third division debut!

SV Waldhof celebrates a successful 2-0 win in Holtz's third division debut!

On Sunday evening, SV Waldhof Mannheim took an important step in the 3rd league. In front of 10,855 fans in the Carl Benz Stadium, the team under new coach Luc Holtz secured their first three-pointer in the 2025/26 season with a 2-0 win against Viktoria Köln. The goals were scored by Adama Diakhaby in the 29th minute and Kennedy Okpala in the 42nd minute.

It was a successful start for Holtz as head coach. After a disappointing record with a draw against SC Verl and a defeat against Hansa Rostock, this victory was particularly important. Holtz relied on a changed starting lineup in which new signings Diakhaby and Diego Michel were allowed to start from the start, while Lucien Hawryluk had to sit on the bench.

Gameplay and key events

Initially, Waldhof appeared more dominant, while Cologne had their first good chance when Cologne goalkeeper Dudu thwarted an early goal from Okpala. But Diakhaby was undeterred and gave Waldhof the lead with a precise shot from the right corner of the penalty area. Shortly before half-time, Okpala increased the score to 2-0, which brightened the mood in the stadium.

In the second half, Cologne tried to increase the pressure, but were unable to create any clear chances. A controversial decision in the Waldhof penalty area in the 66th minute had no consequences. Waldhof managed the lead cleverly, while home fans waited for further counterattack opportunities. The last tricky situation was resolved by Niklas Hoffmann in stoppage time, who saved from the line.

Prospects and next encounters

Another duel is on the agenda for SV Waldhof next Sunday. The opponent is SSV Ulm, and the team will do everything in its power to carry on the momentum from the win against Cologne. For Cologne under new coach Marian Wilhelm it is a mixed season that still has to develop.

Next week, Waldhof will also have important information about Felix Lohkemper's contract extension, which was announced before the game. Niklas Hoffmann and Tim Sechelmann were missing due to injury and suspension, which made the 1110 final changes in the team necessary.

The coaching change at Waldhof seems to be bearing fruit. Luc Holtz obviously has the right knack to get the team on track. In the 3rd league, where the coaching benches often get hot, it remains to be seen what further developments the coming games will bring. Statistics on coaching changes in the third division illustrate how tough business is in football and show that patience is often tested transfermarkt.de.

The next meeting between Waldhof and Ulm is eagerly awaited, but is also an opportunity for Cologne to rehabilitate themselves and stabilize their season. So it remains exciting in the league.