Energie Cottbus: Youth plays big – Sebald shines in goal!
Energie Cottbus is relying on young talents in the test match against Hertha Wels on July 19, 2025, with a strong goalkeeping debut from Alex Sebald.

Energie Cottbus: Youth plays big – Sebald shines in goal!
Today it's about the exciting encounter between Energie Cottbus and Hertha Wels - a test match that had a lot of surprises in store. Coach Pele Wollitz presented himself bravely and replaced the entire team compared to the last meeting with SV Ried. It was an unexpected experiment with a breath of fresh air in the ranks of Cottbus.
A look at the line-up: Alex Sebald was hired in goal, while three young homegrown players, Heidrich, Juckel and Zaydan, were given the chance to prove themselves in this test. In the first half, however, the game was more of a blur than any real fireworks. Highlights were few and far between, with the biggest highlight being the penalty for Hertha Wels. The reason for this was a foul by Sebald that caused an opponent to fall. But Sebald didn't let himself be put off and confidently saved the penalty in the 8th minute by jumping into the right corner.
Fewer goals, but more excitement
The first half wasn't exactly a spectacle, but the big excitement was missing at the end of the first 45 minutes. Apart from a few modest scenes in the goal area, the spectators in the stadium remained in their seats. How do you say? “After the game is before the game!” In the second round things really got going. Both teams improved and ensured more action and engagement on the pitch.
Cottbus is pursuing an exciting strategy: promoting young talent. The inclusion of players like Heidrich, Juckel and Zaydan suggests that the club firmly believes in its own youth. When coach Pelle Wollitz used the various talents, he showed a good hand and an eye for the club's future.
Energie Cottbus relies on innovative approaches and wants to give its players the opportunity to develop in a playful, valuable environment. Such test matches offer the perfect opportunity to not only test the team's performance, but also to strengthen the chemistry within the team and try out new strategies. Who knows, maybe a new talent will soon see the light of day on the football stage?
Overall, it can be said that the mood in Cottbus is optimistic. With a clear focus on youth and some exciting games in hand, the club could well see itself in high demand in the coming competition. We can only hope that the efforts and investments pay off. We are already looking forward to the next games!