Leipzig escapes potential humiliation as HSV struggles significantly - Leipzig manages to overpower HSV with significant challenges
In the 2025/26 DFB-Pokals first round, several Bundesliga teams showcased their dominance over lower division opponents. One of the most notable matches was between RB Leipzig and fourth-tier side SV Sandhausen, where Leipzig secured a 4-2 victory[1][2].
Leipzig, twice cup winners, had a tough time against Sandhausen, with Ampadu Wiafe and Jahn Herrmann scoring for the hosts[3]. However, goals from Yan Diomande, Willi Orban, Ezechiel Banzuzi, and Xavi Simons secured the win for Leipzig[1][2]. Ole Werner, Leipzig's new coach, experienced a challenging debut in this match[4].
Meanwhile, Hamburger SV narrowly avoided an upset against Oberligist FK Pirmasens, winning 2-1 in extra time. Yannick Grieß scored for HSV in the 53rd minute, but Guilherme Ramos equalized late in regular time (90.+2) to save HSV from embarrassment[1]. Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer secured Hamburg's passage to the next round with a goal in extra time (100.)[5].
VfL Wolfsburg recorded their biggest ever cup win against SV Hemelingen, with the game being moved to Bremen's Weserstadion due to pitch problems[6]. No further details about the match are provided.
TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, VfL Wolfsburg, and 1. FC Heidenheim had no issues in their DFB-Pokal matches, with scores of 4:0, 9:0, and 5:0 respectively[7].
In a surprising twist, relegated Bundesliga side VfL Bochum avoided a first-round exit against former East German champions BFC Dynamo, winning 3-1 in extra time despite two red cards for the hosts[8].
In summary, the 2025/26 DFB-Pokals first round saw several Bundesliga teams secure victories against lower division opponents, with RB Leipzig, Hamburger SV, VfL Wolfsburg, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, and 1. FC Heidenheim all advancing to the next round[1][2][5][6][7][8]. So far, only Werder Bremen has been eliminated, losing 0:1 to second division leaders and last year's finalists Arminia Bielefeld[9].
The Commission has also been informed of the progress of the negotiations with the Member States on the conclusion of the agreement, as several Bundesliga teams showcased their dominance in the sports of football during the European leagues' DFB-Pokals first round. For instance, Leipzig, twice cup winners, secured a 4-2 victory against SV Sandhausen in a challenging match, with their new coach Ole Werner experiencing a difficult debut.
