Fighting spirit without goals: Hertha BSC remains in the relegation battle after a draw

Fighting spirit without goals: Hertha BSC remains in the relegation battle after a draw

On August 24, 2025, the eagerly awaited duel between Hertha BSC and SV Darmstadt 98 took place in the Böllenfalltor stadium, which ended in a goalless draw (0-0). This game turned out to be a real feast of chances, but neither team managed to put the ball in the net. Hertha remains winless and is in 16th place in the table after three games with just two points.

The first few minutes clearly belonged to the Berliners. Newcomer Maurice Krattenmacher in particular caused a stir, but jumped over the ball in the 14th minute and failed to hit the post just five minutes later. Darmstadt countered dangerously, Aleksandar Vukotic also hit the post in the 22nd minute. A goal from Kai Klefisch in the 24th minute was disallowed due to an offside position - the game was characterized by such close decisions.

A scoreless second half

After halftime, both teams largely neutralized each other, but the tension remained high. Krattenmacher scored another goal in the 71st minute, but it was again called back for offside. Darmstadt was undefeated and placed third in the table with five points, but was unable to score in the second half either. Hertha's goalkeeper Tjark Ernst proved to be a reliable support and prevented further goals being conceded with strong saves in the final phase.

In stoppage time, Fabian Reese missed the last chance to win for the Berliners, who are therefore still dependent on the search for their first win of the season. In the three games so far, the team has not been able to score a single direct hit - the nerves of the players seem to be frayed, especially on offense. Fabian Reese described the result as bitter, while coach Stefan Leitl was satisfied with his team's performance, but not with the final score.

What does this mean for the future?

Next week will be crucial for Hertha BSC when they host SV Elversberg on Friday, September 1st. Darmstadt, on the other hand, has the opportunity to play against 1. FC Kaiserslautern earlier. While the Darmstadt team is on a solid path and is approaching the season with a lot of optimism, the question of the turnaround over the course of the season remains open at Hertha.

The two teams have to prove in the next round that they can capitalize on their chances in order not to put further strain on the table.

For detailed game analysis rbb24 to the events of the game during Sports show takes a close look at the diverse opportunities and how they are awarded. For a comprehensive picture, the analysis tools from Kicker be consulted.