
Hans Benzler, who started his playing career with the youth section at SpVgg Beckum, then played for VfR Mannheim from 1958 to 1967 in the then top flight of the Oberliga South. In the summer of 1967, the then 31-year-old joined Bayer 04 where he became a fan favourite thanks to his outstanding performances in goal with the nickname of 'grandad'. His displays in goal helped Bayer 04 lift the Regional League West title in 1968. However, he was on the losing side in the promotion decider in a 2-1 defeat at Kickers Offenbach - the Werkself missed out on promotion to the Bundesliga. Hans Benzler retired in 1969.

Werkself-TV shows the highlights of the Bayer 04 women's 0-1 loss at Eintracht Frankfurt on the 17th matchday of the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga 2025/26.
Show more
Bayer 04 have a score to settle with Borussia Mönchengladbach after their late equaliser in the reverse fixture. But it’s been a while since the points were shared in this fixture at Borussia-Park, where the Werkself have won their last six visits – their best run ever away at a team in the Bundesliga. Victory in Saturday evening’s game (18:30 CET) would also be the team’s fifth in a row in all competitions and their best run this season, while Gladbach are only just above the bottom three after going four games without a win. Here’s all you need to know ahead of the evening’s encounter in our matchday news.
Show more
After just two points from their last four games, the situation has become trickier for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the bottom third of the table. Only three points separate the Foals from the relegation play-off spot. Coach Eugen Polanski's team is under pressure ahead of the home game against the Werkself on Saturday, 7 February (kick-off: 18:30 CET). The lowdown on our next opponents.
Show more
Ahead of the Bundesliga match at Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday, 7 February (kick-off: 18:30 CET), coach Kasper Hjulmand spoke about the strengths of the ‘Foals’ and a new player in his own ranks.
Show more