Previous meeting: The substitutes win it. Florian Kohfeldt got his substitutions spot on in Werder’s last meeting with Fortuna. For 70 minutes, Düsseldorf managed to stay in the game and even equalised Kevin Möhwald’s inital goal with a penalty from Lukebakio. Werder would have been able to extend their lead sooner, but Kruse, Rashica and co. all missed several chances. Florain Kohfeldt then delved into his bag of tricks and put on Johannes Eggestein, Martin Harik and Josh Sargent. All three turned out to be inspired substitutions: after a long-range effort from Johannes Eggestein wasn’t dealt with by the Fortuna keeper, Rensing, Martin Harnik pounced to give Werder a 2-1 lead. Just two minutes later, top American talent Sargent scored with his first kick to seal the deal for Werder.
The opponents: Fortuna have earnt a lot of respect from the whole Bundesliga for their efforts this season. Düsseldorf secured an impressive 3-3 draw away in Munich against FC Bayern whilst also becoming the first team to defeat Borussia Dortmund this season (2-1 at home). Friedhelm Funkel’s side have discovered their impressive style of play and the team secured Bundesliga safety two weeks, causing a surprise with how early survival was guaranteed. “You have to give Fortuna and especially Friedhelm Funkel a huge compliment. What Friedhelm has achieved over the course of the season deserves a huge amount of respect from me,” added Florian Kohfeldt regarding upcoming opponents Fortuna’s performances this season. The Green-Whites have only lost one of their last eleven matches against Fortuna (six wins, four draws).