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Demichelis Makes Big Goalkeeper Call Ahead Of Leipzig's Cup Clash
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- Demichelis Makes Big Goalkeeper Call Ahead Of Leipzig's Cup Clash
(IMAGO / HMB-Media)
RB Leipzig coach Martín Demichelis has confirmed that Ørjan Nyland will start again against Rot-Weiss Essen on Tuesday, with the Norwegian goalkeeper set to retain his place following Saturday's 4-0 victory over SV Elversberg.
The Red Bulls travel to the third-tier side for their DFB-Pokal second-round encounter, hoping to build on their impressive weekend performance and secure a place in the next round.
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However, Demichelis has warned his players against underestimating their opponents, insisting that the knockout format leaves no room for mistakes.
Nyland Starts Again But Vandevoordt Remains Number One
One of the biggest surprises against Elversberg was Nyland's inclusion ahead of Maarten Vandevoordt.
The 35-year-old Norwegian delivered a composed performance, helping Leipzig preserve their remarkable Bundesliga home record of four wins and four clean sheets.
Demichelis has now confirmed that Nyland will also start Tuesday's cup tie, although he insists the decision was made well in advance.
"Ørjan Nyland will start in goal again. That's something we'd already planned a few weeks ago,"
- The Argentine explained.
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The coach praised Nyland's commanding presence, composure and ability with the ball at his feet.
However, he made one thing absolutely clear: Vandevoordt remains Leipzig's first-choice goalkeeper.
The decision is therefore another example of Demichelis' willingness to rotate his squad rather than a permanent change in the goalkeeping hierarchy.
After making eight changes against Elversberg, Die Roten Bullen coach has demonstrated that he trusts players outside his regular starting eleven to deliver important results.
Baumgartner Must Wait For His First Start
Another player hoping to feature against Essen is Christoph Baumgartner.
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The Austrian midfielder recently returned from a lengthy injury absence, providing an assist against Real Madrid before scoring in Saturday's 4-0 victory over Elversberg.
His comeback has been one of the most encouraging developments for Leipzig , particularly after the difficult period he endured following his injury.
However, Demichelis is determined not to rush him back into the starting lineup.
Baumgartner played approximately ten minutes against Madrid and 20 against Elversberg, with his workload being increased gradually.
The coach confirmed that the Austrian will not start against Essen but is expected to receive additional playing time.
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The Red Bulls are taking a cautious approach to ensure their vice-captain can return to full fitness without unnecessary risks.
Demichelis Warns Against An Essen Upset
Despite the difference in divisions, Demichelis expects a difficult evening at the Stadion an der Hafenstraße.
Rot-Weiss Essen will have home advantage and the opportunity to produce a major cup upset in front of their supporters.
"It's all or nothing in DFB-Pokal games,"
- Demichelis warned.
The Argentine expects an intense atmosphere and believes Leipzig will need experience, concentration, and tactical discipline to progress.
One player who could play an important role is Tidiam Gomis.
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The young forward has impressed Demichelis since his arrival, with the coach highlighting his versatility, work ethic and willingness to improve.
Gomis scored against both Real Madrid and Elversberg last week, strengthening his case for further opportunities.
His ability to operate centrally or on either wing gives RBL additional flexibility as they prepare for another demanding fixture.
Saturday's victory restored confidence after heavy defeats against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, but Tuesday presents a very different challenge.
Leipzig have struggled to reproduce their dominant home performances away from the Red Bull Arena, making the trip to Essen an important test of their mentality.
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A convincing victory would maintain their momentum and move them one step closer to a potential DFB-Pokal title.
For Demichelis, the objective is straightforward: avoid an upset, continue building confidence and keep Leipzig's cup ambitions alive.
From here the stage only gets bigger.
