The extremely narrow success of VfL Bochum against Hertha BSC seems like a relief for the Ruhr area team. New coach Uwe Rösler gives the team new energy.
The new coach apparently didn’t know what to do with his joy. After his successful debut, Uwe Rösler danced across the lawn in the Bochum stadium and took pretty much everyone who crossed his path in his arms. The energy that Rösler spread on the sidelines during the game (in shorts) was transferred primarily to his players – but also to the spectators.
This hard-fought 3:2 (2:0) tremor victory VfL Bochum against Hertha BSC seemed like a relief for the coach, the Ruhr area team, and for the entire stadium. “Since I’ve been here, in the last two weeks, I’ve noticed the fear, the intensity in the city – and if you’re leading 3-0 and then maybe there’s a draw, that would have been seen as a defeat again,” said Rösler. But VfL was spared this new setback.
Onyeka scores twice
The first victory after six defeats in a row was a real blessing for the mentally challenged Bochum team. “That was very important for us,” said VfL offensive player Onyeka, who with his two goals (32nd/60th) played a decisive role in VfL being able to celebrate a sense of success again for a long time.
VfL’s lead resulted from an own goal by Michal Karbownik (13th). Substitute Luca Schuler (72nd) and Fabian Reese made it exciting again with a penalty kick (80th).
Bochum spasm
The much-needed victory was hard-fought. Gerrit Holtmann, whose shot was deflected to give the team a 1-0 lead, had completely exhausted himself and had serious thigh cramps after 70 minutes.
Attacker Philipp Hofmann’s muscles also stopped playing at some point. But his great effort was worth it as he prepared two goals. And one or two people from Bochum were also not far removed from this unfortunate physical condition.
More lightness
It was clear to the VfL players that they wanted this victory at all costs. They threw themselves into every duel; no path – even a useless one – was too far for them. Even if the Bochum team struggled at the end and were just able to get over the finish line. “We ran out of steam at the back, but compliments to the players,” said Rösler: “We took a very small step.”
The Bochum team, who were actually aiming to return to the Bundesliga, are still in 17th place in the table. But this narrow victory should ensure that everything will be much easier for everyone involved in the coming weeks. “We will go into the next game with a lot of self-confidence,” said Rösler, still impressed by the shock victory.
Next Saturday (October 25th, 2025, 1 p.m.) VfL has to play against Bundesliga relegated Holstein Kiel.
