Former Goalkeeper Piplica Confident Energie Cottbus Can Thrive in 2. Bundesliga

Tomislav Piplica, a legendary former goalkeeper for Energie Cottbus, expressed confidence in the club's ability to secure a lasting place in Germany's 2. Bundesliga. Piplica, who played for the club from 1998 to 2009, believes promotion is just the beginning. "Staying up should not be a problem. With these fans, who are always behind you and never boo you, you have a great weapon. If you are afraid of your own fans, you are paralyzed. I think Cottbus belongs in the 2. Liga. In the long term, one should establish oneself between fifth and tenth place," the former keeper told 'Bild'. He highlighted the passionate fan base as a crucial factor for the team's success. Piplica also drew parallels to the rise of Paderborn, suggesting that with the right team chemistry, similar achievements are possible for Cottbus. "Anything can happen. Look at Paderborn: 3rd league, 2nd league, Bundesliga. Eighty percent of the squad stayed together there. They had this chemistry between the team, coach, and club. That's exactly what Cottbus also has. So, why not?" he asked. The former Bosnian international, who played over 200 competitive matches for Cottbus, also lauded current coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz, known affectionately as 'Pele'. Wollitz led the team back to the second division after a twelve-year absence. "Pele takes all the momentum from the fans with him. He is a volcano, but also a clever coach. He takes a lot upon himself so that the team can play freely. Wollitz is a fox. Sometimes he deliberately creates a scene and, with his actions, takes the focus off the team," Piplica explained.