Energie Cottbus begins 2. Bundesliga mission for survival

After a 12-year hiatus, FC Energie Cottbus is making its return to the 2. Bundesliga, Germany's second-tier football league. The newly promoted team kicks off its campaign to remain in the league with a home game against Hannover 96 on Sunday. "We have come to stay. But to do that, you have to win games. And it's best to start with home games," stated coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz.

Wollitz will have his entire squad available for the match against Hannover. Among the key figures expected to drive Energie Cottbus's survival efforts is new signing Leonardo Bittencourt. Despite receiving numerous offers from abroad, the attacking midfielder chose to return to the Lausitz region. The club is also relying on the goal-scoring prowess of Tolcay Cigerci and Erik Engelhardt, who together netted 39 goals in the third division last season.

The team's objective is clear: secure their position in the 2. Bundesliga. Coach Wollitz's confidence is palpable, emphasizing the importance of starting strong with a victory at home. The return of Energie Cottbus to this level marks a significant moment for the club and its supporters, who are eager to see the team compete against established second-division clubs.