Berlin (Germany), Sep 21 (NationPress) For Hamburg SV sports board member Stefan Kuntz, not much has altered despite the club's inaugural victory of the 2025-26 Bundesliga season on Sunday. "This brings immense relief to everyone, and we can harness the energy generated, but the club's situation hasn’t significantly changed," Kuntz remarked after HSV secured a 2-1 win against Heidenheim.

"The challenge persists as we commence from the bottom and strive to maintain our first-division status with a completely overhauled squad," he continued, reflecting on his experience as a former Germany international.

Despite HSV’s illustrious past, Kuntz, aged 62, cautioned about a challenging journey ahead after seven years in the second division. He pointed out that the club's six national championships—the last being in 1983—and their European Cup victory in the same year "are part of history, even while we relish the enthusiasm sparked by our supporters."

The recent years of setbacks have not diminished HSV's popularity. As one of the founding members of the Bundesliga in 1963, the club continues to attract substantial crowds and enjoys nationwide backing. However, Kuntz likened the path back to stability to "walking a tightrope," classifying HSV as one of the league's underdogs fighting for survival. He called for "a new humility" to navigate the gap between past achievements and current hardships, according to reports from Xinhua.

HSV's squad transformation features 11 new players, including Fabio Vieira and Luka Vuskovic, both acquired on loan from Premier League teams Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, respectively. Vuskovic, an 18-year-old Croatian defender, netted the opening goal after 42 minutes, marking HSV's first Bundesliga goal since May 12, 2018, the year the club faced its first-ever relegation. Rayan Philippe, a French striker, contributed the second goal before Heidenheim managed a consolation score.

This pivotal goal underscored HSV’s tumultuous years, characterized by internal turmoil, unmet goals, and a revolving door of coaching staff. Since 2007, the club has seen 24 coaches at the helm until Merlin Polzin, a former assistant, took over this season. In comparison, Heidenheim has maintained the guidance of a single coach, Frank Schmidt, since 2007, who has successfully led the club from the fourth division to the Bundesliga.

Polzin, aged 34, termed the win "a restart" and commended his players for their self-reflective mindset. "We recognize our position," he stated, urging patience as the team continues to bond. "This victory fosters confidence, which is crucial for our success. It's a foundational moment that highlights our competitiveness."

Vuskovic's performance showcased his grit, even while dealing with a hand injury suspected to include two broken fingers. "I hit the post after missing a golden opportunity just before my goal," he revealed.