Energie Cottbus Secures Vital 3:2 Victory Over Rot-Weiss Essen to Top 3. Liga

Energie Cottbus clinched a thrilling 3:2 away win against Rot-Weiss Essen on November 23, 2025, propelling them to the summit of the 3. Liga standings in a crucial promotion battle. The match, witnessed by 17,307 spectators including around 1,000 Cottbus fans, featured pivotal moments and standout performances that defined the contest.

Tolcay Cigerci opened the scoring for Cottbus with a penalty in the 13th minute after Moritz Hannemann was fouled inside the box. Despite Essen's dominance in possession and pressure, they struggled to capitalize, with notable chances missed, such as Jannik Mause hitting the post in the first half. Cottbus extended their lead through Justin Butler in the 51st minute during a quick counter-attack.

Essen responded with goals from Jannik Mause in the 61st minute and Tom Moustier late in the 88th, narrowing the scoreline. However, Erik Engelhardt's decisive goal in the 69th minute restored Cottbus's two-goal cushion, proving crucial as Essen failed to find an equalizer.

Cottbus goalkeeper Marius Funk’s impressive saves were instrumental in maintaining the lead under heavy pressure. This victory marked Cottbus's first-ever league win against Essen in the 3. Liga, underscoring their resilience and efficiency despite Essen’s possession advantage.

Post-match tensions flared with fan unrest, including objects thrown at referees and on-field player altercations. Additionally, Rot-Weiss Essen condemned the distribution of sexist flyers among their supporters before the game.

This victory ends a recent two-match losing streak for Cottbus and heightens their prospects in the promotion race as they lead the 3. Liga standings following this key away success.