Cottbus await: Salihovic starts, Grahl in goal

On Tuesday evening, September 24th at 20:30 CET, Energie Cottbus are visitors to the WIRSOL Rhein-Neckar Arena for the second-round German Cup clash against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. It's an opportunity for TSG to take revenge for their defeat to Cottbus back in the quarterfinal of the 2010/11 season when Hoffenheim lost 1-0.

“We are really up for the game and are keen to progress,” explained manager Markus Gisdol in Monday afternoon's press conference. In terms of selection, Gisdol has virtually no concerns. “Tarik Elyounoussi started running against yesterday. It will be touch and go for him tomorrow but everyone else is back,” said Gisdol.

The manager was unusually open about his starting eleven the day before the game. “Sejad Salihovic will return and Jens Grahl will be in goal,” said Gisdol. This doesn't change the fact that Koen Casteels remains number one. “The current regulations mean that a goalkeeper can be sent to the changing rooms quite easily so it's always good for the second choice to get some practice,” said the manager. “Jens has also earned his chance after working hard in pre-season and in training.”

"Expose gaps at speed"

Gisdol added that “we will approach the German Cup with the same intensity and attention that we do the Bundesliga. We are completely focused on this game.“ How Cottbus, a side that have struggled in the second division of late losing three of their last four, will set up is something Gisdol will only know when they step onto the pitch. “It is possible that Energie will sit deep, even though their strengths lie in attack,“ said Gisdol. It's all about making things difficult for Cottbus and “expose gaps at speed.“ The manager wants to convince the fans that “coming to these games is worth it” by putting in a good performance.

Should the visitors sit back, TSG have enough quality to cause them problems in front of goal. “Whether it's Roberto Firmino, Kevin Volland, Anthony Modeste or Sejad Salihovic, our attack is always capable of creating chances,” explained Gisdol. The most important thing is to quickly and efficiently turn defence into attack, so as to give Energie no time to organise themselves. Then the club will enjoy their revenge and progress to the third round.