Union travels to Dresden for test match ahead of Cagliari clash
1. FC Union Berlin meets SG Dynamo Dresden on Saturday, 01.08.2026, at 14:00 at the Rudolf‑Harbig‑Stadium. After a week without training, the Eisernen aim to regain rhythm before the Sunday game against Cagliari Calcio. The current Bundesliga record stands at 11th place, 32 points, 8 wins, 8 draws, 13 losses, with recent form LDLWL.
Who is the opponent?
SG Dynamo Dresden, founded in 1953, is one of the most historic clubs from former East Germany. After promotion from the third tier, the Saxons have been back in the 2. Bundesliga since the 2025/26 season, finishing last season in eleventh place. For Union this provides a physical test against a team accustomed to the rigors of the second division.
Which Union alumni are returning?
Dresden’s squad includes three former Union players: goalkeeper Daniel Mesenhöler (2016‑2018, 26 matches), defender Lennart Grill (2022‑2025, eight games) and midfielder Nicolai Rapp, who was with Union in 2019 before a loan to SV Darmstadt 98. Their return offers fans a nostalgic moment and gives the coaching staff extra experience.
What does coach Lustrinelli say?
Head coach Mauro Lustrinelli stresses that the team used the free days to recharge. “We want to quickly find our rhythm again, solidify processes and give every player important minutes,” he explains. The focus is clearly on team development, while the injury list – Robert Skov, Aljoscha Kemlein, Livan Burcu, Frederik Ronnow, Lucas Tousart and Diogo Leite – continues to affect training.
What comes after the test?
Following the Dresden test, Union faces the official Bundesliga clash against Cagliari Calcio on Sunday. The match will be streamed live by rbb, with AFTV+ providing a highlight recap after the final whistle. Union’s season stats show 33 goals scored, 50 conceded (‑17 goal difference), and they sit 44 points behind Bayern München. The next league fixture is on 21.11.2026 at home versus RB Leipzig, where Union currently holds fourth place.
