Is HSV a Sleeping Giant? Insights from BVB Boss Watzke on the Club’s Potential

In the lead-up to the away match against Hamburg, BVB boss Hans-Joachim Watzke expressed high praise for Hamburger SV (HSV), highlighting the club’s impressive potential. With home matches already played against St. Pauli, Heidenheim, Mainz, and Wolfsburg, fans look forward to an exciting showdown this Saturday at 15:30 CET in the Hamburg Volksparkstadion. This match marks the first time in eight years that HSV will face Borussia Dortmund on their home turf.

The last encounter in Hamburg took place in September 2017, where Dortmund secured a commanding 3:0 victory. After a significant absence, HSV has returned to the Bundesliga, a move that has delighted Watzke, who also serves as the chairman of the DFL Supervisory Board. His remarks about HSV’s resurgence emphasize its importance in German football. “The HSV is highly relevant for the German football landscape,” Watzke stated, reflecting on his joy for the club’s ascent back to the top tier.

HSV’s Potential Recognized

Watzke has previously noted that HSV had more overall potential than Borussia Dortmund, a claim he made in 2012 that generated considerable discussion. Despite past disparities in success, he acknowledges that the club’s location and fanbase provide significant advantages. “The years in the second division have cost the club some substance,” Watzke admitted, recognizing the challenges HSV faced. However, he pointed out that HSV boasts a loyal and large fanbase, a vibrant and wealthy home city, along with expansive opportunities.

Looking Ahead to the Match

As an upward-moving team, HSV aims to prove itself in the Bundesliga. Under coach Merlin Polzin, a victory against BVB this Saturday could send a strong message and rekindle memories of a time when both clubs competed on equal footing. Fans are hopeful that this match will signal a brighter future as HSV seeks to reclaim its place among Germany’s top teams.