In a gripping encounter at the Alpenstadion Kapfenberg, SV Kapfenberg and SCR Altach fought to a tense 1-1 draw that extended into extra time, but it was Altach who emerged victorious, advancing to the quarterfinals of the Austrian Cup after a 4-2 win in the penalty shootout. The match, held on October 28, 2025, showcased the resilience of both teams but highlighted the ongoing struggles they face in their respective leagues.
The drama unfolded late in the regulation period, as Kapfenberg, struggling in the 2. Liga with only two draws in their last five matches, finally found a spark. In the 80th minute, Lamine Touré broke the deadlock with a powerful strike, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and infusing a sense of hope into a side that has battled inconsistency throughout the season.
However, just ten minutes later, SCR Altach, buoyed by their own struggles in the Bundesliga, responded emphatically. Moritz Oswald leveled the score with a goal in the 90th minute, a moment that not only shifted the momentum but left Kapfenberg reeling as they contemplated the prospect of extra time.
The first period of extra time saw Altach take command. Within just two minutes of the restart, Srdjan Hrstić struck, putting the visitors ahead 2-1. He would add a second goal in the 105th minute, effectively putting the match out of reach. Although Kapfenberg fought valiantly with their backs against the wall, they could not find a way back into the contest.
As the players trudged off the pitch after a hard-fought contest, the reality of their respective seasons weighed heavily. Kapfenberg, now winless in their last five, remains languishing at the bottom of the 2. Liga, while Altach, despite their mixed form, will take a much-needed confidence boost into their upcoming Bundesliga fixtures.
Looking ahead, this cup victory serves as a double-edged sword. For Altach, the win could be the catalyst they need to build momentum in their league campaign, a chance to shed the weight of past defeats. Conversely, Kapfenberg must regroup and refocus, as their season hangs precariously in the balance. Their search for a significant turnaround must begin now if they hope to climb out of the depths of the league table.
Reflecting on my preview, I had anticipated a match marked by fierce competition and moments of brilliance, yet the outcome remains proof that predictions and hopes can turn quickly in sports. Both teams were hungry for redemption, and while it's Altach who moves forward, Kapfenberg must now channel their spirit into a recalibration for the league, reminding us that in football, every match brings new possibilities.