SpVgg Greuther Fürth secured a 3-0 summer test win over Regionalliga side SC Eltersdorf on July 8 2026, despite missing defender Philipp Ziereis. Coach Heiko Vogel handed the captaincy to 22‑year‑old Felix Klaus, and the attack responded immediately.

How did the match unfold?

In the 18th minute newcomer Shinta Appelkamp (from Fortuna Düsseldorf) opened the scoring. Just four minutes later, new captain Klaus headed in the second goal. The third strike came in the 52nd minute from Omar Sillah, sealing a 3-0 victory. About 750 spectators watched the match, which sent a clear message to rivals.

Why does Ziereis’ absence matter?

Philipp Ziereis, who arrived from LASK Linz a year ago, is reportedly on the verge of a move to Melbourne Victory in Australia, according to nn.de. Without the 33‑year‑old defensive leader, the back line had to be reshuffled. Yet the side stayed compact, suggesting other players can fill the gap, a positive sign for the upcoming season.

What does the result mean for the current campaign?

Greuther Fürth currently sit 16th in the 2. Bundesliga with 37 points (10 wins, 7 draws, 17 losses) and a recent form of W L D L W over the last five games. The team has scored 49 goals and conceded 68 (‑19 goal difference) this season, but the clean‑sheet test win hints at defensive improvement. Their last official result was a 2-0 win over Rot‑Weiß Essen on May 26 2026.

What’s next?

Following the test, the focus shifts to the upcoming league clash with leaders FC Schalke 04, who sit 33 points ahead. Coach Vogel will likely continue tightening the defence while integrating the attacking trio of Appelkamp, Klaus and Sillah. Supporters will be watching closely to see if the new captaincy can turn the season around.