Hannover 96 secured a 3-1 victory over Phoenix Lübeck on July 6, 2026 at the youth academy's Eilenried Stadium, delighting 130 children in the process. The win came after a sluggish first half with few chances, but a second‑half surge from Hayate Matsuda and new pros Alexander Vogel and Tom Hobrecht delivered the goals.

How did the test match unfold?

The opening period was tight; both sides struggled to create clear opportunities. Mwisho Mhango hit the post twice, and Yunus Ünal left the pitch after 24 minutes with a knee‑calf injury. Despite this, over 1,500 spectators, including the 130 kids, kept the atmosphere upbeat. After the break, Hannover 96 increased the tempo. In the 55th minute, Hayate Matsuda scored following a Franz Roggow cross, which Karim Hüneburg had cleared for Lübeck. Shortly after, Alexander Vogel (68') and Tom Hobrecht (77') added to the tally, sealing a 3-1 final. Lübeck pulled one back in the 79th minute through Julius Kliti, but it was too little, too late.

Why does the result matter for the season?

The friendly offers insight into the attacking unit that has struggled to find the net in recent 2. Bundesliga fixtures. Despite sitting 4th in the league with 60 points (16W‑12D‑6L) and a +16 goal difference (60 scored, 44 conceded), consistency remains an issue – the last five matches all ended in draws (DDDWD). The win could boost confidence ahead of the next competitive round.

Which players stood out?

Hayate Matsuda showed composure in tight spaces, while newcomers Vogel and Hobrecht accelerated their integration into the first team. Although Lars Gindorf missed the game with a thigh problem, he is expected to feature in the upcoming XXL‑test in Paderborn (four 30‑minute blocks). Yunus Ünal’s fitness remains uncertain as his injury has not fully healed.

What lies ahead?

Coach André Kilian will build on the second‑half positives to sharpen the offensive rhythm. Defensively, the side must tighten up; Lübeck’s goal exposed lingering frailties. In the coming weeks, the squad aims to turn the current unbeaten streak (0W‑5D‑0L) into actual victories and close the 10‑point gap to league leaders FC Schalke 04. The youth camp continues to serve as a vital bridge between academy and senior squad, reinforcing fan engagement.

Combining a clear win, the children’s excitement, and the latest league snapshot – 4th place, 60 points, 16W‑12D‑6L – gives Hannover 96 a modest but meaningful boost for the second half of the campaign.