Dortmund advances to German Cup third round

October 29, 2025 / 9:25 AM

Sharjah 24: Borussia Dortmund advanced to the third round of the German Cup (DFB-Pokal) after beating Eintracht Frankfurt 4–2 on penalties, following a 1–1 draw in regular and extra time. The second-round match was as intense as expected, featuring top-quality football and high tension until the final kick.

Ansgar Knauff opened the scoring for Frankfurt in the 7th minute, but Dortmund’s Julian Brandt equalised early in the second half (48’). Neither team managed to find a winner in extra time, leading to a penalty shootout where Dortmund converted all four spot-kicks through Fábio Silva, Niklas Süle, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Felix Nmecha.

Frankfurt’s Ritsu Doan and Fares Chaibi missed their penalties, which sealed Dortmund’s progression in the tournament, which they have won five times.

Exciting cup rematch settled by penalties

The encounter rekindled memories of the 2017 German Cup final, which Dortmund also won 2–1 against Frankfurt under coach Niko Kovač, who was then leading the opposing side.

Despite several scoring chances in extra time, both teams demonstrated strong defensive organisation and goalkeeping, and the shootout ultimately decided the result. Dortmund’s composure from the penalty spot secured their progression to the round of 16, reinforcing their reputation as one of Germany’s most consistent cup contenders.

Other second-round results

In other fixtures, Hertha Berlin comfortably progressed with a 3–0 victory over second-division side Elversberg, while Hamburg beat Heidenheim 1–0 to secure their spot in the next round.

The biggest upset occurred as Holstein Kiel, from the 2. Bundesliga, shocked Wolfsburg with a 1–0 away win, knocking out the 2015 cup winners and continuing their impressive run in the tournament.