Second division side VfL Osnabruck unveiled an elaborate tifo featuring a rollercoaster before their German Cup first-round match against Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The display, which took several months to plan and build, showcased the words 'VfL Osnabruck – a rollercoaster ride!' and included a wooden cart travelling along a track at the Bremer Brucke stadium.
The club stated the tifo symbolised its turbulent history, which fans refer to as a "rollercoaster ride full of ups and downs." It highlighted major triumphs, such as a 1978 victory over Bayern Munich, alongside various "scandals and bitter defeats."
The rollercoaster structure, built from wooden slats, plastic piping, and fabric, was designed to be rolled out in sections. A cart, primarily made of wood and styrofoam, carried dummies and continuously rode the track via a push and pull system. The display also featured a "photo station" where a flash captured the cart, with the "photo" instantly appearing on the grandstand's right side. Fans recorded a 'Funpark Bremer Brucke' song to accompany the spectacle.
Although the tifo was removed before kick-off, the festive atmosphere continued as Osnabruck took a surprising 1-0 lead after just five minutes. However, reigning German Cup and Bundesliga champions Bayern secured a 4-1 victory, with two goals from England captain Harry Kane, and additional goals from Tom Bischof and Michael Olise, to advance to the second round.