DFB Cup anticipation: Stefan Leitl of Hertha BSC optimistic about a breath of fresh air in the cup competition
Hertha BSC Overcomes Preußen Münster in Thrilling DFB-Pokal Shootout
After a closely contested match at the Preußenstadion in Münster, Hertha BSC emerged victorious in the first round of the 2025-2026 DFB-Pokal, securing a 5-3 penalty shootout win over SC Preußen Münster.
The game, played on August 18, 2025, was a tense affair with both teams showcasing their determination and skill. The regular and extra time ended in a 0-0 stalemate, setting the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Hertha BSC's F. Reese, L. Jensen, M. Cuisance, M. Krattenmacher, and S. Grønning all converted their penalties, while SC Preußen Münster's O. B. Meier, S. Scherder, and C. Makridis also scored. Unfortunately for Münster, L. Lokotsch missed his penalty, sealing Hertha's victory.
This win marks a significant step for Hertha BSC, as they aim to play the final in their own stadium, which is currently under construction and expected to be completed in 2028.
The history between these two clubs is rich, with Preußen Münster winning 2 out of 3 previous encounters, but Hertha BSC has shown resilience, winning the DFB-Pokal twice, in 2009 and 2021.
Hertha's coach, Stefan Leitl, expressed confidence in advancing to the next round, despite SC Preußen Münster's better start this season. However, he also voiced concerns about the strong performances shown by Münster in their recent matches.
The absence of Niklas Kolbe could have a significant impact on Hertha's performance, but the team, described as a collective rather than a group of individual stars, will undoubtedly rally to fill the gap.
This match was not only a testament to the competitive spirit of both teams but also a demonstration of the growing prestige of the DFB-Pokal, as highlighted by Leitl. The drama and excitement of the cup competition continue to captivate fans across Germany.
Key Points:
- Date and Venue: August 18, 2025, Preußenstadion, Münster
- Final Score: 0-0 (Hertha BSC won 5-3 on penalties)
- Competition: DFB-Pokal 2025-26, 1st Round
- Head-to-Head Record (before 2025 match): Preußen Münster 2 wins, Hertha BSC 1 win
- Penalty Shootout scorers: Hertha BSC: Reese, Jensen, Cuisance, Krattenmacher, Grønning; Münster: Meier, Scherder, Makridis (Lokotsch missed)
This thrilling cup tie further strengthens the rivalry between these two German clubs and adds to the drama of the DFB-Pokal competition. Fans can relive the excitement by watching the highlights available on YouTube.
In the impressive 5-3 penalty shootout victory of Hertha BSC over SC Preußen Münster in the first round of the 2025-2026 DFB-Pokal, the team displayed the use of a particular kind of strategy often seen in European leagues and the Premier League, emphasizing sports-analysis during the thrilling match on August 18, 2025, at the Preußenstadion in Münster. The game, marked by both teams' determination and skill, reflected a rich history of five previous encounters, with Hertha BSC emerging victorious twice, in 2009 and 2021.
