On Matchday 20 of the 2025/26 3. Liga, 1. FC Magdeburg edged out SV Elversberg 2‑1 thanks to a late free‑kick, tightening their lead in the promotion race. SC Verl claimed a dramatic 3‑2 win over Viktoria Köln, while SSV Ulm 1846 thrashed Erzgebirge Aue 4‑0. At the other end, Carl Zeiss Jena suffered a 0‑3 loss and KSV Hessen Kassel earned a last‑minute draw, keeping the relegation battle alive.
Key Results and Highlights
Magdeburg vs. Elversberg – Title‑Deciding Duel
Magdeburg maintained composure after an early red card and secured a 2‑1 victory with a decisive free‑kick by striker Lukas Weber, his sixth goal of the season. The win extended the club’s lead at the top of the table.
SC Verl Stuns Viktoria Köln
Verl employed high‑pressing tactics to overcome Viktoria Köln 3‑2 in a thrilling finish. Köln fought back twice, but Verl’s relentless attack earned them valuable points in the mid‑table race.
SSV Ulm 1846 Dominates Erzgebirge Aue
Ulm displayed offensive power, winning 4‑0 thanks to a brace from 19‑year‑old winger Jamal Al‑Saeed. The result solidified Ulm’s position among the promotion contenders.
Relegation Battle
Carl Zeiss Jena’s Setback
Jena endured a heavy 0‑3 defeat, weakening their chances of securing safety and intensifying the fight to avoid the drop.
KSV Hessen Kassel Scrapes a Point
Kassel salvaged a 1‑1 draw with a late own‑goal, leaving them just three points clear of the relegation zone and prompting a defensive overhaul.
Season Context and Standings
The 2025/26 season features a 20‑matchday schedule. After Matchday 20, Magdeburg leads with 44 points, followed closely by Elversberg (42) and Ulm (41). The race remains tight, with every match capable of reshaping the table.
Implications for the Promotion Chase
Magdeburg’s win reinforces their psychological edge, while a victory for Elversberg could swing momentum. Ulm’s offensive surge adds another threat, making the final stretch unpredictable.
Future Outlook
Upcoming fixtures include Bayern Munich II vs. SV Sandhausen and a clash between 1. FC Kaiserslautern and SV Waldhof Mannheim. These matches will further define the promotion picture and the battle for league survival.
