Viktoria Köln edge Elversberg in friendly encounter

SV 07 Elversberg and FC Viktoria Köln served up an entertaining friendly contest under summer skies, with both sides looking to build match fitness ahead of the new campaign. The home crowd created a lively atmosphere at the Evonik-Stadion, though neither team dominated proceedings early on. Elversberg had their moments but found themselves pegged back as Viktoria settled into their rhythm.

The deadlock was broken in the 27th minute when D. Otto fired Viktoria ahead with a well-taken finish. The away side's opener sparked a response from the hosts, who pushed hard to get back on level terms before the interval. However, Elversberg could not find an equaliser in the opening 45 minutes, leaving themselves trailing at the break despite some determined attacking play.

The second half saw Elversberg apply sustained pressure and finally break through to level the score, pulling themselves back into the contest when it mattered most. Viktoria, though, proved they had more to offer as the match wore on. R. Ott restored the visitors' advantage in the 67th minute, a crucial strike that ultimately proved decisive as Elversberg's attempts to mount another comeback fell short.

Viktoria held firm to secure a 2-1 victory that will provide their coaching staff with valuable insights ahead of the season. Elversberg, despite the defeat, showed enough attacking intent to suggest they remain competitive, though they will want to tighten their defensive shape. Both sides will use this outing to inform their preparations for the campaign ahead.