Top game in the regional league: Jena is chasing Leipzig's lead in the table!

Top game in the regional league: Jena is chasing Leipzig's lead in the table!

On October 1, 2025, FC Carl Zeiss Jena and Lok Leipzig will meet in the top game of the Regionalliga Nordost. It is a catch-up game on the eighth match day, which was postponed due to Children's Day. While the Leipzig team sits undefeated in first place in the table with 25 points, Jena is in third place with 22 points and could take over the lead in the table with a win. MDR reports that Lok Leipzig have an impressive record of eight wins and one draw so far this season, with a goal difference of 19:4.

The home game could be particularly emotional for Jena, as they have won all four home games so far this season and haven't conceded a single goal. Before the game, coach Volkan Uluc showed respect for the Leipzig team and emphasized the importance of avoiding losing the ball. “We have to play with focus and take advantage of our chances,” said Uluc in an interview. On the other hand, Lok coach Jochen Seitz sees the game as important and would like to further extend their lead at the top of the table with a win. “It’s time for us to annoy our opponents,” said Seitz optimistically.

A first-class encounter

It is the 103rd edition of a classic between these two traditional clubs, which gives the duel an additional explosiveness. The encounter will be broadcast live on SPORT IM OSTEN, and many fans will crowd into the stands of the Ernst Abbe sports field to loudly support their team.

An interesting aspect of the game is the referee Rasmus Jessen, who has already made 103 appearances in the Regionalliga Nordost. Jessen will be supported on the line by Ahmad Chahrour and Daniel Läser, while Patrick Kluge will act as fourth official. Jena has been etched in the referee's memory in the past - in eight matches under his direction, Jena secured four wins, two draws and two defeats. Lok Leipzig can look back on a similarly balanced record, with six wins and five defeats in twelve games under Jessen. Thuringia24 provides further details.

Assessment and outlook

The mood is tense and the anticipation for this duel is growing by the hour. Both teams have a lot to gain. While a win for Jena would mean leading the table, Lok Leipzig would continue its series with another success and keep the competition at a distance. The starting position couldn't be more exciting!

For current statistics and further information about the Regionalliga Nordost it is worth visiting Kicker. There you will find all the data about the league. It remains to be seen whether the Jena team can maintain their strong home record or whether Lok Leipzig will once again emerge victorious.