Energie Cottbus 3 – 1 Hertha Berlin II
International Club Friendly | 4 July 2026, 20:00

Energie Cottbus kicked off their pre‑season campaign in style with a commanding 3‑1 victory over Hertha Berlin II. Playing at their Stadion der Freundschaft, the hosts dominated large spells and showcased their attacking depth ahead of the new competitive season.

First‑Half Dominance

Cottbus took control from the opening whistle. The home side pressed high and forced Hertha’s young defence into early errors. The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when a swift counter‑attack ended with a composed finish from striker Timo Born – his first goal of the pre‑season. Just before the interval, left‑back Maximilian Pronichev doubled the lead with a powerful left‑footed strike from the edge of the box after a well‑worked corner routine.

Hertha’s Response and Cottbus’s Resilience

Hertha Berlin II started the second half with more purpose. In the 56th minute, substitute Lucas Michel pulled one back with a looping header from a cross, momentarily giving the visitors hope. However, Energie’s response was immediate. Within ten minutes, midfielder Jonas Hofmann restored the two‑goal cushion with a neat finish following a defensive mix‑up in the Hertha box.

Key Tactical Observations

• Energy and tempo: Cottbus pressed relentlessly in the first hour, forcing Hertha into unforced errors.
• Set‑piece threat: Both of Cottbus’s first‑half goals came from set‑piece situations, an area they clearly worked on in training.
• Rotation: Both coaches made multiple substitutions, with Cottbus’s deeper bench proving decisive in maintaining intensity.

Standout Performer

Maximilian Pronichev was a constant menace down the left flank. His goal and assist (for the opening strike) underlined his importance in the final third. His energy and delivery from wide areas will be a key weapon for Cottbus in the coming season.

What It Means

For Energie Cottbus, this result provides a perfect confidence boost as they continue their pre‑season preparations. Their next friendly is scheduled against a higher‑tier opponent, while Hertha Berlin II will look to tighten their defensive organisation after conceding three goals.

The match was played in front of a healthy crowd of around 3,200, a promising sign of fan engagement ahead of the new campaign.