FC Ingolstadt 1–0 Palermo | International Club Friendly

German 3. Liga side FC Ingolstadt edged out Italian Serie B club Palermo 1–0 in a tightly contested pre-season friendly at the Audi Sportpark on 18 July 2026. The fixture provided both teams with a stern test against different playing styles.

Match Overview

A single goal just before the hour mark separated the sides in a match that was high on effort but low on clear-cut chances. Defences largely dominated, with Ingolstadt’s organisation proving decisive in the end.

Key Moments

• 57th minute – Ingolstadt break through: After a period of sustained pressure, midfielder Stefan Kutschke rose highest to meet a corner and powered a header into the net.
• 78th minute – Palermo almost equalise: A sweeping move ended with a shot that struck the crossbar, Ingolstadt’s goalkeeper beaten.
• 88th minute – Missed chance for Palermo: A late free-kick went narrowly wide, summing up the visitors’ frustration.

Tactical Battle

Ingolstadt set up in a disciplined 4-4-2, pressing in mid-block and hitting on the counter. Palermo dominated possession (around 60%) but lacked penetration in the final third. Ingolstadt’s compact shape and physicality nullified Palermo’s creative players.

Player Highlights

• Stefan Kutschke (FC Ingolstadt): The veteran striker scored the only goal and led the line effectively.
• Marius Funk (FC Ingolstadt goalkeeper): Made a couple of crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
• Francesco Di Mariano (Palermo): Palermo’s liveliest attacker, but found little space.

Friendly match | 18 July 2026 | Venue: Audi Sportpark, Ingolstadt