second leg
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second leg
In sports, the second match between two teams as part of a competition, taking place after the first match (the first leg). Often, the combined score from the first and second legs decides who advances.
Nach dem 1:1 im Hinspiel müssen wir das Rückspiel unbedingt gewinnen.
After the 1-1 draw in the first leg, we absolutely have to win the second leg.
The word is made up of 'Rück-' (back/return) and 'Spiel' (game/match). So it literally refers to the 'return match' or second match against the same opponent.
Das Rückspiel findet nächste Woche in unserem Stadion statt.
The second leg will take place next week in our stadium.
A 'Rückspiel' (second leg) is always the second part of a competition. The first match is called 'das Hinspiel' (the first leg). Often, the aggregate result from both matches counts.
Nach der 0:2-Niederlage im Hinspiel wird das Rückspiel sehr schwer.
After the 2-0 defeat in the first leg, the second leg will be very difficult.
Common verbs used with 'Rückspiel' (second leg) are 'gewinnen' (to win), 'verlieren' (to lose), or 'bestreiten' (to play/contest). It is also often said that the second leg 'entscheidet' (decides) something.
Das Rückspiel entscheidet, wer ins Finale einzieht.
The second leg decides who advances to the final.
rematch / revenge
Both words can refer to another game between the same opponents. However, the Rückspiel is the regular second meeting after the Hinspiel (first leg). The Revanche is a rematch in which the former loser wants to make up for the defeat.
Nach dem Hinspiel findet nächste Woche das Rückspiel statt.
The second leg will take place next week after the first leg.
Nach ihrer Niederlage fordert die Mannschaft eine Revanche.
After their defeat, the team is calling for a rematch.
