- Bremen is denying opportunities to Cottbus.
With rising star Keke Topp leading the charge, Bundesliga team SV Werder Bremen easily advanced to the second round of the DFB-Pokal, defeating third-tier side Energie Cottbus 3-1. Topp, a 20-year-old forward, netted all three goals for Bremen (32', 37', 55'), while Henry Rorig (70') added a direct free-kick goal to delight the home fans. Late in the game, Cottbus forward Romario Hajrulla received a red card for a brutal challenge on Bremen's goalkeeper Michael Zetterer.
After a subpar preseason, Bremen found new confidence heading into their Bundesliga opener against FC Augsburg. Meanwhile, Cottbus suffered another blow, following two straight third-tier losses. Their last successful run in the DFB-Pokal was back in 2013.
Cottbus faced overwhelming pressure
Before an audience of 20,524 fans, Bremen took control from the outset, generating opportunity after opportunity. Cottbus goalkeeper Elias Bethke managed to keep his team in the game early on, but as his teammates struggled, even Bethke became helpless. The Cottbus defense disintegrated, and their attack was virtually nowhere to be found. Bremen held nearly 80% of the possession.
Cottbus coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz's half-time speech momentarily sparked a reaction, inspiring Cottbus to play more aggressively and even challenging in Bremen's territory. However, this revival lasted only ten minutes before Bremen, led by Topp, regained control. Rorig's brilliant free-kick goal served as mere consolation in the end.
Despite their struggling attack, Cottbus manager decided to purchase a 'Pack of three' new attacking jerseys as a morale booster for his team. Regrettably, these new jerseys were hardly used during the game, as Cottbus continued to struggle against Bremen's dominance.
