25 years of the Krone Cup: Small field, big cinema

 

The popular small-field tournament, which has thrilled players and fans for a quarter of a century, will take place again on Corpus Christi

Lülsdorf. 25 years of the Krone Cup - on Thursday, May 30th, it's that time again: The Krone Cup of the old men of SpVgg Lülsdorf-Ranzel, which has now become a permanent tradition, is entering the silver round.

The popular small-field tournament, which was initially held under the name Kirchmann Cup, was launched in 1997 as a meeting between two counter teams. Since then, more and more teams have been added. In 2019, the field was as full as the stadium at the derby: an incredible ten teams took part. A highlight in 2018 was the participation of a Croatian selection when many thought: “Is this the Krone Cup or the European Championship?”

In 2015, the tournament received its current name based on its namesake: the “Zur Krone” restaurant. The tournament is characterized by small-field football games, where the aim is to play in a fair, sporty and relaxed atmosphere with friendly teams from neighboring towns and to enjoy the cozy atmosphere next to the pitch.”

In the run-up to the Krone Cup, the award ceremony of the football betting pool “We for You” will take place for the 16th time. The 107 tipsters achieved a new record amount in the 23/24 season. Organizer Peter Schmitz said: “Let yourself be surprised!” This year the amount will be donated to the German Children’s Cancer Aid, the Rhein-Sieg Children’s and Youth Hospice Association, and to “Tischlein Deck Dich” Niederkassel. The LüRa Old Men are happy to share this special day with the people of the “We for You” betting pool, especially since many LüRa AH players are also members of the betting pool.

The Krone Cup takes place on the SpVgg Lülsdorf Ranzel sports field, Premnitzer Straße 1 in Lülsdorf; first kick-off is at 2 p.m. Not only the hosts, but also the participating teams are already jittery with anticipation, says Werner Robertz, 1st chairman of the Old Men, and recommends: “Come by and look forward to exciting duels and one or two delicious Kölsch - to calm your nerves, celebrate victories or simply to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.” Traditionally, physical well-being and the best atmosphere are taken care of, true to the tried and tested motto: “Come to the football, stay for the bratwurst!”