1. FC Saarbrücken Delivers Another Cup Shocker
Bayer Leverkusen, favored against second-division Paderborn, cruised to a 3-1 victory, but star player Florian Wirtz exited injured. Meanwhile, Saarbrücken continued its fairy-tale run, knocking out Eintracht Frankfurt after defeating Bayern Munich.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Paderborn 07: 3-1 (2-0)
The sensational Saarbrücken's tale in the DFB Cup continues, leaving Bundesliga powerhouse Eintracht Frankfurt reeling after a 2-0 defeat. Frankfurt, whose World Cup champion Noel Futkeu was sent off for a late challenge, is now on a four-game losing streak, with Saturday's clash against Bayern looming.
The Hessian's woes have been sparked by Saarbrücken, who have now won seven of their last eight DFB Cup matches and surpassed their 2019/20 semi-final run with this performance.
Pitch conditions in Ludwigspark were unfavorable due to a last-minute tarpaulin cover, but Saarbrücken nevertheless played well, provoking set-pieces and keeping Frankfurt at bay. Kai Brünker (64') and Luca Kerber (78') sealed the deal for Saarbrücken, securing a quarter-finals berth for the third time in three seasons.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. 1. FC Saarbrücken: 3-1 (2-0)
In the ongoing DFB Cup, Leverkusen claimed a convincing 3-1 victory over Paderborn, remaining unbeaten in all competitions. Bayer is well-positioned to make another cup run after being eliminated in the quarter-finals last year.
The Werkself dominated the match from the get-go, with a clinical performance that saw Jonas Hofmann, Exequiel Palacios, and Patrik Schick score for Leverkusen, while Sebastian Klaas netted an equaliser for Paderborn.
Despite a promising showing, midfielder Florian Wirtz was forced to leave the pitch injured, leaving Leverkusen somewhat concerned before their upcoming fixtures.
Saarbrücken's DFB Cup History
Saarbrücken has had mixed results against higher-division teams in the DFB Cup. In the 2024/25 tourney, they drew 1-1 with Nuremberg in the second round, eventually losing in a penalty shootout. Data analyzing Saarbrücken's victories against top-tier sides is scarce.
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Savoring the cup sensation, 1. FC Saarbrücken advanced further in the DFB Cup, winning against Eintracht Frankfurt in their well-deserved quarter-final matchup. Bayern Leverkusen, despite Florian Wirtz's absence, still appeared formidable in their win over second-division side SC Paderborn 07, positioning themselves as a strong contender in multiple competitions.
