Shocking scenes for the 49,500 spectators packed into Fortuna Düsseldorf’s arena! In a basement thriller, Markus Anfang (51) and his team lost 1-2 (0-0) against his former club Holstein Kiel. The Rhinelanders are now deeply embroiled in a relegation mess after their fourth consecutive defeat.
For Anfang, who took charge on October 6th (record: 6 wins, 3 draws, 12 losses), this could be the end. Manager Sven Mislintat (53) needs to come up with something before the crucial final five games – otherwise, after 17 years, the prospect of dropping back into the 3rd division looms again. Mislintat says, “We will analyze the situation together – with an open mind.” He explicitly praises the coach’s work.
The Coach’s Response to his Situation
The coach, when asked by BILD if he believes he will be sitting on the bench during next week’s crucial game in Magdeburg, says, “Ask those who make the decisions at the end of the day. But I understand that in football, these questions are asked. I have done everything that can be done, and I will continue to do so. I will always fight against the odds. For me, it’s even more motivating. Helmet on and let’s keep going. But I have no control over the players getting injured.” And that has been a major issue for Fortuna this season.
Three More Players Injured
A counterattack goal by Phil Harres (24) caused a shock among Düsseldorf’s fans. They had to endure a team that was tense for most of the game. They wanted to, but couldn’t really perform.
This was not only because of the eight absentees in the 2nd division club. Despite that, the situation worsened. Christian Rasmussen (23), Luca Raimund (21), and Florent Muslija (27) had to leave the field injured. Especially for Muslija, it could mean the end of the season.
After Cedric Itten’s equalizer (29/71), which brought hope with his 12th goal of the season, another setback came just nine minutes later. Kiel’s Ivan Nekic (25) ensured their lead once again.
Kiel have now overtaken Düsseldorf in the table. Fortuna could even drop into a relegation spot after this matchday.
