Fortuna Duesseldorf on Verge of Bundesliga Return After 3-0 Playoff Win

Fortuna Duesseldorf is on the cusp of returning to the Bundesliga after a 3-0 victory over Bochum in the first leg of their relegation playoff. The win puts Duesseldorf in a commanding position ahead of the second leg on Monday, where they need only avoid defeat to secure promotion.

Duesseldorf's triumph was built on a calamitous start for Bochum. Just 13 minutes into the match, Cristos Tzolis' quickly taken corner rebounded off Philipp Hofmann's leg and into the goal. The visitors doubled their lead early in the second half through Felix Klaus, who finished off a lightning-fast counterattack.

Yannik Engelhardt sealed the victory with 18 minutes remaining, pouncing on a rebound from a Tzolis free-kick. The result gives Duesseldorf a significant advantage in their bid to return to the top division for the first time since 2019-20.

Historically, the top-league side has held a clear advantage in the end-of-season playoff. However, Duesseldorf is one of only three second-flight teams to have won promotion via the playoff since its reintroduction in 2008-09.

Duesseldorf's triumph over Hertha Berlin in 2011-12 is a testament to their ability to overcome the odds. Union Berlin, who leapfrogged Bochum out of the third-last spot on the final matchday, was the last second-division team to win promotion via the playoff, doing so on away goals in 2019.

With the away goals rule abolished, Duesseldorf will secure promotion on Monday by winning, drawing, or losing by fewer than two goals. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the relegation playoff, with Duesseldorf poised to make a triumphant return to the Bundesliga.

Tags: #FortunaDuesseldorf, #Bochum, #BundesligaPlayoff, #RelegationPlayoff, #PromotionRace