Fortuna Düsseldorf and Hertha BSC Clash in 2. Bundesliga – A Season of Disappointment

Düsseldorf, Germany – As the 2. Bundesliga season nears its conclusion, Fortuna Düsseldorf and Hertha BSC prepare to face each other at the Merkur Spiel-Arena on March 22, 2026. However, this encounter is a far cry from the promotion battle many anticipated at the start of the season for both traditional clubs.

Hertha BSC’s Fading Promotion Hopes

Hertha BSC’s ambitions for promotion are dwindling, currently sitting seven points behind the top three teams. Coach Stefan Leitl acknowledged the situation, stating, “The promotion is gone for now.” The focus has shifted to securing the best possible league position to maximize financial returns for the club.

Fortuna Düsseldorf’s Struggle for Stability

Fortuna Düsseldorf finds themselves in a precarious position, only five points above the relegation zone. Their recent form has been inconsistent, highlighted by a 1-0 defeat against Eintracht Braunschweig. Markus Anfang, Fortuna’s manager, emphasized the importance of home form, stating, “It’s going to be a very difficult match, but we know we’re strong at home. If we manage to approach the game with the same determination, power, energy and passion as in our previous home matches and get the fans on our side, we know we can beat Hertha.” Fortuna is currently unbeaten in their last five home matches, winning four of those games.

Key Player Updates

Fortuna Düsseldorf will be without several key players, including Emmanuel Iyoha, Matthias Zimmermann, Christian Rasmussen, Tim Rossmann, Kenneth Schmidt, and Hamza Anhari. Jordy de Wijs is returning to training but is not yet available, and Marin Ljubičić remains doubtful.

Hertha BSC has received a boost with the contract extension of centre-back Pascal Klemens, who has committed to the club until 2028. Coach Leitl expressed his happiness about Klemens’s decision, noting his connection to the club and his potential.

Match Details

The match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and Hertha BSC is scheduled for March 22, 2026, at 12:30 UTC at the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Historical Context

Fortuna Düsseldorf has won their last two home matches against Hertha BSC and are unbeaten at home in five competitive fixtures against them. Hertha’s last away win in Düsseldorf came in August 2010.