Stuttgart II vs Energie Cottbus Result
3. Liga · Germany
Stuttgart II
Full Time
Energie Cottbus
📍 WIRmachenDRUCK Arena, Aspach
🗓️ Tuesday, 3 Mar 2026 at 18:00
Energie Cottbus Rally to Edge Stuttgart II in Second-Half Turnaround
Energie Cottbus staged an impressive second-half comeback to secure a 2-1 away victory over Stuttgart II at the WIRmachenDRUCK Arena. After a cagey first half, the hosts broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, but Cottbus responded with two quickfire goals in the space of four minutes to flip the contest on its head. Despite late pressure from Stuttgart II, Energie Cottbus held firm to claim all three points in this tightly contested 3. Liga encounter. The match was marked by its intensity and physicality, with five yellow cards handed out as both sides battled for control. Ultimately, Cottbus’s clinical edge in front of goal and disciplined defending in the closing stages proved decisive, while Stuttgart II will rue their inability to build on their early second-half lead.
Stuttgart II
Stuttgart II looked the brighter side after the interval, seizing the initiative with a 51st-minute opener. However, their defensive frailties were exposed as they conceded twice in rapid succession, unable to regain their composure or break down a resolute Cottbus defense in the final half hour. The hosts showed plenty of spirit but lacked the attacking sharpness to force an equalizer, and their frustration was reflected in the three yellow cards they picked up.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Energie Cottbus
Energie Cottbus showed great resilience, overturning a second-half deficit with a quick double salvo in the 60th and 64th minutes. Their ability to capitalize on Stuttgart II’s defensive lapses was key, and they managed the game well after going ahead. The visitors also demonstrated discipline under pressure, picking up only two yellow cards in a combative match, and saw out the final stages with composure.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Key Moments
51' — Goal
Stuttgart II take the lead with a well-worked move finished off after the break.
60' — Goal
Erik Engelhardt levels for Energie Cottbus, finishing off a swift attacking move.
64' — Goal
Justin Butler completes the turnaround for Cottbus with a decisive strike.
74' — Yellow Card
Stuttgart II’s frustration grows as they pick up their third yellow card.
80' — Yellow Card
Cottbus receive their second booking as tensions rise in the closing stages.
Tactical Analysis
Both teams lined up with balanced formations, focusing on midfield control and quick transitions. Stuttgart II’s midfield trio, led by Justin Diehl, provided energy and creativity, especially at the start of the second half. However, their defensive line was caught out twice in quick succession, as Cottbus exploited space with incisive forward play. After taking the lead, Cottbus dropped deeper, compacting their shape and relying on disciplined defending to repel Stuttgart II’s attacks. The match saw frequent tactical fouls and bookings, reflecting the high stakes and intensity.
Turning Point
The four-minute spell between the 60th and 64th minutes, when Cottbus scored twice to overturn the deficit and seize control.
Man of the Match
Erik Engelhardt
His equalizer shifted the momentum and inspired Cottbus’s comeback.