DFB-Pokal: Wollitz still warns despite Cottbus' passion

Energie Cottbus coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz is not satisfied despite his team's strong effort in their DFB-Pokal match against FC Augsburg. Although the team showed great passion, they ultimately lost 0-2, leading to their elimination in the first round.

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I believe that the team needs to get better at the gap, and the gap is not sufficient at the moment.

Wollitz chose to criticize and urge his players rather than praise their fight. He sees a significant gap within the team that needs improvement. "I believe that the team needs to get better at the gap, and the gap is not sufficient at the moment," the 61-year-old stated. He believes the result against Augsburg reflects the team's current limitations.

The coach warned that with the current resources, the initial euphoria at Energie could quickly fade during a challenging second division season. "I stand by it, we have to become more risk-taking. If we don't, then twelve months can pass quickly and then you look at each other and say, why didn't we...", Wollitz cautioned.

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I stand by it, we have to become more risk-taking. If we don't, then twelve months can pass quickly and then you look at each other and say, why didn't we...

Wollitz stressed that reinforcements are needed, especially in offense, where the injury to striker Erik Engelhardt is still felt. While new signing Dmytro Bogdanov received some playing time, Wollitz cautioned against placing too much burden on the young player. The coach emphasized that hard work in training is crucial for the team to gain confidence and succeed in the league, starting with their next match against SpVgg Greuther Fürth.

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The question is, whether one can gain self-confidence from a defeat. We can only underpin that in the training week by continuing to work intensively. That is the key.