Ragnar Ache and Luca Sirch following the Red Devils’ 2-1 home win against Darmstadt. (1. FC Kaiserslautern via Facebook)
The Bundesliga dream is still alive for the Red Devils and their fans following their 2-1 home win on Sunday against Darmstadt.
But for promotion to the first division. 1. FC Kaiserslautern must win next Sunday in Cologne and hope the competition chokes on the last day of play.
FCK did its part for next week’s showdown, coming from behind to beat the Lilies at a sold-out Fritz Walter Stadium.
Darmstadt shocked the Red Devils in the third minute when Luca Marseiler took a rebound off FCK keeper Julian Krahl and put the ball in the net.
In the 10th minute Jean Zimmer fell in the box and referee Robin Braun called to play on. The replay referee was of a different opinion and had Braun review the play.
On second look he decided on a penalty for Kaiserslautern. Marlon Ritter converted to tie the score.
The Red Devils got lucky in the 32nd minute when a Darmstadt goal was called back for offsides.
Ragnar Ache scored his 18th goal of the season in the seventh minute of stoppage time to put Kaiserslautern ahead.
The Lillies had numerous chances to tie the game in the second half, and had another goal called back for offsides, but could not even the score.
In the final minutes, Kaiserslautern kept Darmstadt away from its goal and held on for the victory and the three points to stay in competition for third place.
Despite the win, the Red Devils almost need a miracle to reach the playoff games against the 16th place Bundesliga team.
First, they need to beat Cologne, with former coach Friedhelm Funkel. Then both Elversberg and Paderborn must lose, and Düsseldorf cannot do better than a tie.
It is a lot to hope for, but at least 5,000 fans will be in Cologne to support their team.
May 11, 2025 18:30
