By Pauline von Pezold
It’s the game that the whole of Köpenick, maybe even the whole of Berlin, has been waiting for: Union Berlin against Real Madrid, David against Goliath!
While some expect little chance of Unioner’s Champions League debut, others are full of euphoria and optimism. In the end, the most normal thing in the world happens, albeit happily: the 14-time Champions League winner Real wins 1-0.
“It’s the ultimate in having an opponent like that on your debut,” says Heiko H. (51) from Köpenick. “Completely crazy, it couldn’t be better,” adds Juliane T. (49) from Lichtenberg.
Heiko H. (51) with Juliane T. (49) Photo: Olaf Selchow
Football fans mill about in front of “Tusches Kick & Rush” – dressed in red and white T-shirts, hats and scarves. Cool beer is drunk. The audience is diverse, men and women of all ages, families with children and dogs. They are all united by their love for Union.
Those who don’t have space in front of the screen in the pub try to get a look at the screen from outside through the large window fronts, while others help themselves with their cell phones.
Homely: The interior of “Tuschke’s Kick & Rush”
Most of them are standing, some have used empty beer crates to replace chairs – the lack of space doesn’t dampen the mood.
Quite the opposite: During the game people talk, laugh and drink. Fan chants come from the pub: “We are Unioners, we are the sick, we break through all barriers.” This is how you give yourself courage.
“We are excited, but all we can do is wait and see. The main thing is not to sink. A draw would be great,” says Steffen B. (57) from Köpenick. Kathrin K. (56) from Köpenick says: “When do you have something like that? The main thing is to take it with you. That’s so rare.” Photo: Olaf Selchow
“0-0 in the first half. That gives hope,” says Holger B. (58) from Köpenick confidently. “They defend really well,” says Thorsten M. (56) from Köpenick.
“If they continue like they did in the first half, then that would be great,” say Holger B. (58) and Thorsten M. (56, left) from Köpenick Photo: Olaf Selchow
But then, deep into stoppage time, David’s hope of a victory over Goliath is dashed. For the fans, however, Union remains the champion. “It was on equal terms, we can be proud,” says Thorsten M. “Really well done,” says Holger B.