Energie Cottbus to face Bielefeld without injured striker Engelhardt

Promoted FC Energie Cottbus must overcome the significant blow of losing their top striker, Erik Engelhardt, to a season-ending injury as they prepare for their first away match in the 2. Bundesliga against Bielefeld.

Engelhardt sustained a severe knee injury, tearing his cruciate ligament and meniscus during a training session. The injury will sideline the crucial goalscorer for months, forcing the team to adapt their strategy for the upcoming games. This loss comes as a major setback for the newly promoted side.

Energie coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz is exploring options to fill the void left by Engelhardt. He is considering fielding either Tolcay Cigerci or Moritz Hannemann in the forward position. However, Wollitz acknowledges that Engelhardt cannot be replaced one-to-one, highlighting the striker's importance to the team's offense.

The team is heading into the match against Bielefeld on the back of a victory against Hannover 96 in their return to the second division. Meanwhile, Bielefeld suffered a defeat in their recent game against Karlsruher SC. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 1:30 PM (13:30) on Sky.