Storm yields Bayer's contentment
In the opening round of the 2025-26 DFB-Pokal, Bayer Leverkusen demonstrated their prowess with a convincing 4-0 victory over Sonnenhof Großaspach. The match, played in an 8,000-inhabitant town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, marked the start of Erik ten Hag's tenure as Leverkusen head coach.
The game was not without its challenges, as a heavy hailstorm forced a 18-minute pause early on. However, once play resumed, Leverkusen took control, with Patrik Schick converting a cross from Amine Adli to open the scoring at 32 minutes.
Sonnenhof Großaspach showed resilience, creating several great scoring opportunities. Unfortunately for them, two players were sent off: Volkan Celiktas received a second yellow card in the 66th minute, and Mert Tasdelen was dismissed in the 82nd minute. This left Großaspach with nine men for a significant portion of the match, and Leverkusen capitalised by increasing their dominance.
Arthur scored the second goal at 74 minutes, followed by Christian Kofane at 84 minutes and Alejandro Grimaldo from the penalty spot at 87 minutes. These additional goals secured Leverkusen's win and their progression to the next round.
New signings Mark Flekken, Jarell Quansah, and Ibrahim Maza featured in ten Hag's competitive starting lineup, with Grimaldo making his 100th competitive appearance for Leverkusen. Maza admitted that finding their footing has been difficult due to the team's upheaval, but he believes they are improving from game to game.
The second red card for Sonnenhof Großaspach made the game easier for Bayer Leverkusen, according to Maza. The opposing team played a defensive game, often referred to as "the game of life."
Erik ten Hag acknowledged the team's wobbles after the first goal but was satisfied with the final 4-0 result. Meanwhile, Union Berlin also secured a win in the DFB-Pokal, although details about their opponent were not provided. The first round of the DFB-Pokal was challenging for Bundesliga teams, with smaller clubs playing defensively.
As Bayer Leverkusen face a new chapter under ten Hag, they will look to build on this victory and continue their progress in the DFB-Pokal.
The Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of the measures provided for in Article 92 (3) (c) of the Treaty, leaving Erik ten Hag and Bayer Leverkusen to focus on their football ambitions, such as the pursuit of success in the DFB-Pokal. In the 2025-26 DFB-Pokal, Leverkusen showcased their prowess on the football field, even overcoming challenges like the 18-minute hailstorm pause early in the game against Sonnenhof Großaspach, ultimately securing a 4-0 victory.
