14.07.2025 / English
Halfway through the training camp
Halfway through the training camp. The Lilies have completed six sessions so far, focusing on different areas: opening the game, defending in the block. But challenging sprints, demanding strength circuits, and regeneration phases have also characterised the training plan so far.
Six units, lots of content
„We’re in for a tough week,“ prophesied Fraser Hornby on Thursday evening after arriving in Bad Wörishofen. After a strength training session on the day of arrival, which particularly challenged the players‘ upper bodies rather than their travel-weary legs, this pattern changed over the next two days. The focus was on recognising spaces away from the ball, quick shifts of play, and determined transitions. This was also reflected in finding solutions in the final third and finishing. Those who attended the two sessions on Friday saw much of the content that Florian Kohfeldt had already announced as part of the program for the days in Allgäu after the friendly against Notts County. A striking feature was a tactics board at the side of the pitch, on which the players were repeatedly given brief tactical instructions.
On Saturday, this tool was again in place on the tartan track, close to the pitch, while Kohfeldt gave his usual loud coaching: „Quick passes, quick goals!“ This clear message accompanied the various game formats on different pitch sizes. Once again, quick action and transitions were demanded.
Hot temperatures, maximum speed
In the afternoon, sheer willpower was much more important. Sprints across the entire pitch. Hot temperatures, maximum speed. A textbook example of the often-cited rigors of a training camp. This was followed by more games. Despite the lactate in their legs, the players continued to play at a high pace, wearing each other out in duels, and even a brief disagreement after a duel was loudly audible. Intensity, emotions, and a willingness to perform. „We want to get off to a good start to the season,“ explained new signing Semih Güler in a media briefing during the training camp. The foundation for this will be laid, especially during the days in Allgäu.
However, head coach Kohfeldt and the coaching staff know full well that the red zone cannot be permanent. Therefore, regeneration was the focus on Sunday. A bike ride and a short program on the training ground concluded the sporting activities. This also meant starting the new week with recharged batteries. Two friendly matches await next Thursday (July 17th). The tough test against FC St. Gallen starts at 3 p.m., followed immediately by a match against FV Rot-Weiß Weiler.
We’ll provide you with daily updates on social media with impressions from training, interviews, and exclusive insights into everyday life at the training camp.
Defeat with Heart
Darmstadt 98 lost to Hannover 96 while playing with ten men and must continue to wait for their first win of this second division season. Read our analysis to find out what positives remain and why Darmstadt 98 had factored in setbacks on their chosen path.
Jonathan-Heimes-Platz officially opened
Around the time of the home game against Hannover 96 on Sunday (August 30th), the Jonathan Heimes Square was officially inaugurated. Before kickoff, club president Markus Pfitzner and Martin Heimes, father of Jonathan Heimes, who died of cancer about ten years ago, gave speeches highlighting "Johnny's" importance and his commitment to people with cancer.
Running together to do good: “Run for ME/CFS”
The Lilien Team Marathon is not just about athletic performance and the shared experience around the Böllenfalltor stadium – but also about making a difference together.
Still undefeated
The SV Darmstadt 98 U21 team drew 2-2 (0-1) against SV Unter-Flockenbach. After a heated home game, the young Lilies had to settle for a frustrating, but ultimately deserved, draw. In this extremely balanced league, Patrick Kurt's team continues to grow week by week, gaining valuable experience.
“Our belief in this path is immense.”
An emotional match with many controversial moments unfolded on Sunday afternoon at the Merck Stadium at Böllenfalltor. Ultimately, Darmstadt suffered their first home defeat of the young season. We've compiled the post-match reactions for you.
Outnumbered: Lilies Lose to 96ers
Tried everything, but to no avail: SV 98 came up short in their home game against Hannover 96. The final score was 1-0 (0-0) to the visitors, whilst the Lilies had to play with ten men after Vukotic was sent off in the 20th minute.
Team News: Three Changes in the Starting XI
Home game against Hannover! On matchday 3, Darmstadt 98 will host the ambitious Lower Saxons at the Merck Stadium at Böllenfalltor. Florian Kohfeldt has made three changes to his starting lineup compared to the victory in Jena. Hiroki Akiyama replaces the suspended Kai Klefisch, while Nicolas Verkooijen (making his first start) and Yosuke Furukawa start in place of Carlo Sickinger and Manolo Merx.
Matchday Guide: All Information before the Hannover Game
Weekend, Lilies fever! On Sunday (August 30th/1:30pm), the Lilies have their third matchday on the schedule. Hannover 96, the club from the Lower Saxon capital, will be visiting the Bölle. What do the two head coaches have to say before kickoff? Who will be refereeing the match? And where can you watch the game? As usual, we've compiled all the important information about the match against Hannover in our "Matchday Guide"
Transfer News: Mikelbrencis strengthens SV 98
One day before their home game against Hannover 96, Darmstadt 98 have announced another new signing. William Mikelbrencis will now wear the SV 98 jersey. The 22-year-old Frenchman was under contract with Hamburger SV until June 30th.
“I’d be up for it”
In the press conference before the second home game of the still young season, our head coach spoke about, among other things, our team's attacking play and the past week. As usual, you can find the most important statements before the match against Hannover 96 (August 30th/1:30pm) here for you.
Opposition Check: Hannover 96
A second-division team on the Berlin Mount Olympus: Hannover 96 achieved something unique in 1992. On May 23, the Lower Saxony club defeated Borussia Mönchengladbach in the DFB Cup final, securing another major title in the club's history 38 years after their German championship win in 1954. Hannover became the first and, to this day, only "true" second-division team to win the DFB Cup, causing one of the biggest upsets in the competition's history.
