SV Darmstadt 98 secured a commanding 4-1 victory over VfL Bochum in the opening match of the new German second-tier league season. The home side demonstrated a strong performance from the outset, taking the lead in the 5th minute through Isac Lidberg. Bochum equalized in the 34th minute with a goal from Moritz Broschinski, but Lidberg quickly restored Darmstadt’s advantage just before halftime with his second goal of the game.
Darmstadt extended their lead immediately after the restart, with Lidberg capitalizing on a rebound to make it 3-1. Aleksandar Vukotic then added to Bochum’s woes in the 56th minute, capitalizing on a corner to seal a comfortable 4-1 lead. Despite Bochum’s attempts to mount a comeback, Darmstadt remained composed and limited the visitors’ scoring opportunities. Bochum appeared vulnerable defensively, highlighted by the two goals conceded following set pieces in the second half.
While Bochum enjoyed a greater share of possession, they were unable to translate that into a positive result. The team under coach Florian Kohfeldt showcased a strong form and were justly rewarded with a deserved win to begin the season.
Elsewhere in the afternoon’s matches, SV Elversberg defeated 1. FC Nürnberg 1-0, SC Paderborn edged out Holstein Kiel 2-1 and Karlsruher SC secured a 3-2 win against Preußen Münster.