Dusseldorf II and TSV Steinbach Haiger served up an entertaining pre-season friendly on 31 July 2026, with the visitors running out 4-2 winners in a match that showcased plenty of attacking intent from both sides. While friendly results often carry little weight, the performance gave TSV Steinbach Haiger a morale-boosting victory as they fine-tuned their preparations for the new campaign.

Match Overview

The game got off to a bright start, with both teams eager to press high and play on the front foot. Dusseldorf II, the reserve side of Fortuna Düsseldorf, matched their higher-level opponents for large stretches but were ultimately undone by moments of individual quality from TSV Steinbach Haiger. The visitors took an early lead, only for the home side to respond, and the first half ended with the score level at 1-1.

After the interval, TSV Steinbach Haiger stepped up their intensity and scored three more goals to take firm control. Dusseldorf II managed to find a second goal of their own, but it proved to be nothing more than a consolation as the away side closed out a comfortable win.

Key Moments

• 9' – Away team strike first: A quick transition caught the Dusseldorf II defense out, and the forward finished neatly.
• 27' – Dusseldorf II equalize: A well-worked move down the left ended with a precise low finish into the far corner.
• 52' – Steinbach retake the lead: A header from a corner restored the visitors' advantage.
• 66' – Third goal: A stunning strike from outside the box flew into the top corner.
• 73' – Fourth goal: A counter-attack was completed with a composed finish.
• 85' – Dusseldorf II pull one back: A late penalty was converted to make the scoreline slightly more respectable.

Tactical Story

TSV Steinbach Haiger showed their experience in the second half, dropping into a compact shape and then springing forward with pace. Their ability to exploit the space behind the Dusseldorf II full-backs was a recurring theme, especially after the break. Dusseldorf II, meanwhile, showed some promising combination play in central areas, but their final ball often let them down against a well-organized away defense.

The friendly also served as a useful fitness test for both squads, with each coach making numerous substitutions to give players minutes. TSV Steinbach Haiger's depth proved decisive, as the players introduced after the interval made an immediate impact.

Standout Players

The TSV Steinbach Haiger forward was the obvious standout, scoring twice and providing a constant threat in behind. Their attacking midfielder also impressed, pulling the strings and adding the third goal with a spectacular effort. For Dusseldorf II, the left-sided midfielder showed plenty of energy and creativity, playing a part in both of his team's goals.

Looking Ahead

This result gives TSV Steinbach Haiger confidence as they continue their pre-season schedule, with their attacking output a definite positive. Dusseldorf II, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their first-half display but will need to tighten up defensively as they prepare for their league campaign. Friendlies such as this are all about building sharpness, and both teams will have gained valuable minutes ahead of the season opener.