Fortuna Düsseldorf: Fortuna faces suspension disaster

Fortuna Düsseldorf should do everything possible in Fürth (Sun., 3:30 p.m./Sky) to secure their survival with a victory. Because in the case of a loss or a draw, direct relegation or their third relegation participation after 2011/12 and 2023/24 could be looming. Back then, it was about promotion to the Bundesliga, this time it’s about avoiding relegation from the 2nd division.

Especially the first match in the relegation could turn into a suspension fiasco for Düsseldorf. Because five players are at risk of missing out due to suspension. Vice-captain Tim Oberdorf (29), Elias Egouli (23), Sima Souso (20), Tim Breithaupt (24), and Christian Rasmussen (23) all have four yellow cards and could pick up the suspension with a 5th caution in Fürth.

Fortuna went the extra mile to inquire whether the cards from the league will carry over to the relegation. There are conflicting reports on this matter. However, Manager Sven Mislintat (53) found out that they will indeed carry over to the relegation. He humorously commented, “It’s best if we secure our league status with a win in Fürth right away.”

It won’t be easy – as they will be missing their top scorer Cedric Itten (28/15 goals) and key player Matthias Zimmermann (33), suspended after picking up their 5th yellow cards in the 3-1 win over Elversberg.

At least Satoshi Tanaka (23) is back on the training field after missing the last four games due to a muscle strain. In Fürth, he could potentially play for a brief period after his extended absence. If he gets playtime in Fürth, it would be his debut under Coach Alexander Ende (46), who has only been in charge of Fortuna for four games.