Hertha BSC secured a convincing 3:1 victory at Lok Leipzig in their third pre-season friendly, remaining unbeaten in the warm-up series. The capital club continues to impress with their attacking football. League standing: 7th in 2. Bundesliga, 51 pts, 14W-9D-11L from 34 games, recent form LWLLD. Despite a spirited fight from the Regionalliga Nordost champions of last season, Hertha’s superior class told in the end.

What happened in the Bruno-Plache-Stadion?

The match took an odd turn in the 23rd minute with a drink break — a nod to the 1994 World Cup in the USA. Hertha struck early when Sebastian Grönning headed in Janne Berner’s cross in the 32nd minute. Leipzig equalized three minutes later after Berner’s error, but Soufian Gouram restored the lead with a 20-meter strike (37th). Marten Winkler made it 1:3 in the 53rd after Julian Eitschberger’s cross.

Marton Dardai marked his comeback from a long adductor injury in the 80th minute. The final whistle saw Hertha win 3:1 — a result that underlines their strong pre-season form. Goals this season: 47 scored, 44 conceded (+3 goal difference).

Why the Ernst saga now dominates the headlines

Tjark Ernst (23) made his first appearance of the pre-season between Hertha’s posts. But his move to Feyenoord Rotterdam is edging closer: the Dutch side have tabled an offer — though it falls short of his €5m release clause. Stefan Leitl was blunt: “The fact is, Tjark is in demand. The fact is, Tjark has offers. Now it’s not up to me, it’s two floors up.”

Leitl is now demanding clarity: “Now a decision is needed: go or stay! That’s what I’m calling for. A clear decision.” If Ernst leaves, Hertha need alternatives fast. The transfer window remains wide open — and the clock is ticking.

Hertha’s pre-season gathers momentum

The Leipzig win caps a strong trio of friendlies: after thrashing Frohnauer SC 15:0 and SV Lichtenberg 9:0, Hertha’s attack has been on fire. The defence wasn’t flawless, but the front line delivered quick combinations.

Leitl made wholesale changes at half-time, bringing on fresh legs. Dardai’s return was an emotional highlight. The side looks sharp and hungry — just what Hertha need after a disappointing campaign with only 14 wins from 34 games.

What’s next for Hertha BSC?

Hertha currently sit seventh in the 2. Bundesliga, 19 points adrift of leaders FC Schalke 04. Title race: 19 points behind leaders FC Schalke 04. Their last five matches read one win, one draw and three losses (LWLLD, most recently a 1:6 reverse at Arminia Bielefeld on 17 May 2026).

The next competitive outing comes on 22 August 2026 at FC Saarbrücken. Until then, pre-season continues — and the Ernst decision must be made. Fans are hoping for clarity before the real campaign kicks off.