The last second knockout in the relegation was a shock for FC Ingolstadt.
It is remarkable that the Schanzer are still on a promotion spot.
Theoretically, the 1860 opponent even wins first place this Monday.
Only around lunchtime will it be decided whether the onset of winter will allow the 1860 home game against FC Ingolstadt to be held.
Neither team would be happy to cancel.
The Lions are keen on the game because they started the new year with a Derby tailwind.
And FC Ingolstadt, because like the hosts they have won three of the last four games and could jump to first place in the table.
Our interview with Tomas Oral, the trainer from last year’s fourth.
Mr Oral, how is the mood at the FCI after two wins in the new year?
Oral:
Very good, thank you.
We had to bite into the first game because we were already 0: 1 behind after four minutes (and then defeated Duisburg 2: 1 / Red.).
Then on Wednesday in Zwickau: freezing cold, rotation.
The new year came straight away.
All the better that we also successfully mastered the catch-up game (2-0).
Have you already rotated in Zwickau with a view to the top game in 1860?
Oral:
For God's sake!
We don't have anything like that, that would be fatal.
In this league, you have to take every game seriously, as close as it gets.
1860 and the FCI met twice in the 3rd division - each with the better end for Ingolstadt.
It was 2-0 at the season finale, 2-2 despite Ingolstadt outnumbered in December.
How do you see the lions meanwhile?
Oral:
One look at the table is enough to see that they have caught up.
For me they are, like us, a title contender, and ten other clubs also have this goal.
1860 has stabilized and young talent has been integrated.
Like us, they have a good squad and a good coach (laughs) - it will definitely be an interesting game.
The mental strength of your team is also remarkable.
How did you manage to get the team back up so quickly after the last second knockout in the relegation against Nuremberg?
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The FCI is also keeping an eye on it: 1860 jewel Dennis Dressel.
© Stefan Matzke / Sampics
Oral:
Indeed, that was not to be taken for granted - because the whole circumstances were extraordinary.
The 2nd division was snatched from us twice, and there was no real preparation because of Corona.
With Stefan Kutschke and Eckert Ayensa, important players were also injured.
A huge compliment how they put it all away.
Have you tried one of your famous psychological tricks again?
Oral:
You are referring to the number with the car wash.
Back then in Frankfurt, that was the right measure - which also brought the desired success.
The whole thing got to the press by chance.
And just like then, this time too we keep the things in the closet that we use.
Because the car wash number was ridiculed back then?
Oral:
Such things are only ridiculous if they don't work and you make yourself the fool of the nation (smiles).
Is Caiuby returning home an issue for Monday?
Oral:
Yes, he will definitely be in the squad.
It's great that we have him up our sleeves.
Weeks ago I would not have believed that such a transfer would be possible.
Is there a player at 1860 that you would like to have on your team?
Oral:
At the moment I am absolutely satisfied with the team we have.
But it's no secret that we looked into one or the other sixty player before the season started.
Mölders or Dressel?
Oral:
We are very well positioned up front - a lot of cooks spoil the broth.
And, as far as I know, Dressel has a long-term contract (smiles).
But I agree with you: he is obviously a very interesting player.