The SC Magdeburg suffered another disappointment at the DHB-Pokal, falling short of even a consolation prize after their surprising semifinal exit. Just 16 hours after a dramatic penalty shootout loss to the Bergischer HC, the Champions League winners were defeated by TBV Lemgo Lippe in the third-place match, 31-35 (15-16). The defeat also cost Magdeburg the opportunity to enter next season’s cup competition directly in the round of 16.
Tim Suton led all scorers with eight goals, while goalkeeper Constantin Möstl turned in a stellar performance with 17 saves for Lemgo, who had lost to the Füchse Berlin the previous day. The final between league champions Füchse Berlin and Bundesliga newcomers Bergischer HC takes place on Sunday afternoon (3:45 PM CET).
Despite the cup setback, coach Bennet Wiegert’s team still has two title opportunities this season. In the Bundesliga, Magdeburg holds a seven-point lead over second-placed SG Flensburg-Handewitt, making the championship nearly secure. In the Champions League, the defending champions are also vying for another Final Four spot in Cologne. The quarterfinal first leg against Pick Szeged is scheduled for April 29, with the return match in Magdeburg the following week.