DUISBURG, Germany (Interstat) — MSV Duisburg opened its 3. Liga campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Hoffenheim on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena.

Forward Lex Lobinger led the charge with two first-half goals, in the 17th and 50th minutes. Substitute Yannik Lührs added a goal and an assist, scoring in the 40th. Hoffenheim’s lone reply came from Connor Noß in second-half stoppage time. The result defied a pregame projection of a 2-2 draw, with Duisburg heavily favored to win.

The match featured six yellow cards. Duisburg begins the season 1-0, while Hoffenheim starts 0-1.