Marcel Rapp demands FC St. Pauli response against Kaiserslautern after cup defeat

Cup elimination and training response

FC St. Pauli head coach Marcel Rapp has demanded a direct reaction from his squad following an early exit in the first round of the DFB-Pokal. The Hamburg-based club fell to a 0:2 defeat away against third-tier opposition in Essen over the weekend, producing a performance that left much to be desired across multiple areas. Despite the cup elimination, Rapp pointed to an immediate shift in mentality among the players during weekly practice sessions ahead of their next competitive fixture. The coach stated that the team approached their daily work with high intensity, focus, and commitment as they prepared for league duties. Rapp noted that the squad maintained their willing attitude and took a clear step forward during the training week.

Of course we were disappointed that we were eliminated. Nevertheless, I perceived the boys as being fully focused now on the new task. The boys trained well, they are willing. That is what they have been the whole time. And I also believe we took a step forward this week.

Extended winless run and tactical analysis

The cup loss in Essen prolonged a substantial winless period for FC St. Pauli in competitive fixtures. The Hanseatic side last secured a competitive victory in late February. Under Rapp, who took charge as the new head coach, St. Pauli began their 2. Bundesliga campaign with two consecutive draws. They recorded a 1:1 draw against Greuther Fürth in the opening round and followed it with a 2:2 away draw against Holstein Kiel on matchday two. Addressing the run of form, Rapp acknowledged the frustration surrounding the lack of victories while maintaining an analytical stance.

Of course we are not so happy with the results, that is very clear. Of course it makes all the work easier when you have successful experiences.

Rapp outlined that the coaching staff does not allow outcomes to dictate the evaluation of team performance. He explained that pressure regarding match results is primarily generated from outside the squad. Internally, the technical staff reviews matches in the exact same manner during a difficult run as during a winning streak. The coach and his assistants conduct their assessments soberly, objectively, and independently of the final scoreline to establish what functioned effectively on the pitch and where errors occurred.

Squad condition and Kaiserslautern fixture

FC St. Pauli enters the third matchday of the 2. Bundesliga season with a clash against 1. FC Kaiserslautern, scheduled for Sunday at 13:30 and broadcast live on Sky. Ahead of the encounter, the club reported positive news on player availability, with Rapp recording no short-term injury absences in his roster during the training week. The squad also gains offensive depth with the return of forward Abdoulie Ceesay. Following a multi-week layoff caused by injury, Ceesay has rejoined the group and provides an additional attacking option for Rapp when selecting his matchday squad against Kaiserslautern.