After a narrow 1-0 away defeat, Greuther Fürth are one step away from relegation to the 2. Bundesliga for the first time since 1997. However, the return leg will be held at Sportpark Ronhof, where Kleblatt have lost only twice in nine home matches since 2026. With over 16,000 spectators in attendance, Heiko Vogel's side must capitalize on their home ground and a strong support to overcome the deficit.
The hosts' key asset is their attacking duo. 2. Bundesliga top scorer Noel Futkeu (19 goals this season) and captain Branimir Hrgota are playing their final matches for the club before leaving for Eintracht Frankfurt and retiring, respectively. Futkeu was hampered by the fear of a yellow card in the first leg, but now nothing is stopping him from giving 100%. The visitors, meanwhile, are without three key players (Buebari, Gjasula, and Mause) and are conceding an average of 1.74 goals per game this season.
Considering Essen squandered numerous chances in the first leg (including a one-on-one that hit the post), and Uwe Koscinath's team is playing significantly more confidently at home than on the road, a bet on a Fürth victory seems the only correct scenario. The hosts are obliged to go all-in, and their motivation and the support of the crowd should help them secure a comeback victory and maintain their place in the second division.
