Cottbus edged past Aue 2-1 in a tightly contested 2. Bundesliga match on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Erzgebirgsstadion. The victory, secured by a late goal from captain Axel Borgmann, propels Energie Cottbus back to the top of the league standings. The match, a traditional East German derby, was also marred by a brief suspension of play due to disturbances in the stands.
Axel Borgmann in action during the match between Aue and Cottbus on February 22, 2026. (Image via junge Welt)
Aue, celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, entered the match seeking a vital three points to climb out of the relegation zone. The team, now under the guidance of new manager Christoph Dabrowski following the dismissal of Jens Härtel, started brightly. Marcel Bär opened the scoring in the 4th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse and slotting the ball into the top left corner past Aue’s veteran goalkeeper, Martin Männel.
However, Cottbus responded quickly. Just minutes later, a corner from Tolcay Ciğerci found Lukas Michelbrink, who headed the ball towards King Manu. The on-loan forward from Düsseldorf, utilizing his 1.95-meter frame, powerfully headed the equalizer past Männel. The score remained level as both teams battled for control, with neither creating significant clear-cut chances before halftime.
The second half saw Aue pressing for a second goal, but the match was temporarily halted following an unsettling incident in the stands. According to reports, a confrontation erupted between groups of supporters, with individuals wearing face coverings clashing near the guest block. Referee Lukas Benen, prioritizing player safety, suspended play for several minutes while order was restored. The incident, while disruptive, did not result in any reported injuries.
Following the resumption of play, Cottbus’ manager, Pele Wollitz, who had been unwell during the week, made several substitutions, including bringing on Tolga Ciğerci. The tactical change proved pivotal. A well-executed free-kick from Tolcay Ciğerci found his brother, Tolga, who headed the ball across the face of goal for captain Axel Borgmann to powerfully finish in the 87th minute. The goal secured a crucial victory for Cottbus, sending them back to the top of the 2. Bundesliga table.
Axel Borgmann, a central midfielder who has been with FC Energie Cottbus since 2019, continues to be a key figure for the team. According to ESPN, Borgmann was born on July 8, 1994, and currently plays as a defender. Transfermarkt lists his market value at €225,000. His leadership and goal-scoring ability were on full display against Aue.
The result leaves Aue still deep in relegation trouble, but they remain competitive. Cottbus, meanwhile, will look to maintain their position at the summit as they face their next challenge. The win marks a significant moment for Cottbus, solidifying their status as contenders in the 2. Bundesliga. The match served as a reminder of the passion and intensity that defines East German football derbies.
Cottbus’ next match is yet to be confirmed, but fans will be eager to see if they can continue their winning form. The team will undoubtedly be looking to build on Borgmann’s late heroics and maintain their position at the top of the table. For Aue, the focus will be on securing points to climb away from the relegation zone, with Christoph Dabrowski tasked with instilling a winning mentality in the squad.
The 2. Bundesliga season is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with several teams vying for promotion. Cottbus’ victory over Aue has only intensified the competition, and fans can expect more exciting matches as the season progresses.
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