<p>Stuttgart, the current DFB-Pokal holders, will face a tough challenge as they take on Freiburg at the MHPArena in a semi-final on Thursday. They will aim to recover after their last defeat, while Die Breisgau-Brasilianer are chasing a fifth straight win.</p>

<p>In the last DFB-Pokal final, Stuttgart beat third-tier Arminia Bielefeld by a final scoreline of 4-2. Nick Woltemade and Deniz Undav scored one goal each, while Enzo Millot starred with two strikes. That trophy was the biggest moment of their season, as they finished ninth in the league. Even after losing players like Woltemade last summer, Stuttgart are now fourth in the table and look stronger heading into this semi-final.</p>

<p>Still, their recent form has not been steady. They have been switching between wins and losses in their last seven games across all competitions. Most recently, they lost 4-2 to Bayern Munich on Sunday, just a week after beating Hamburger SV 4-0.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Julian Schuster&rsquo;s Freiburg are in great form heading into the semi-final and could still achieve something special this season.</p>

<p>Freiburg have made it to the Europa League semi-finals after beating Celta Vigo 6-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals. However, in the previous round of the DFB-Pokal, they needed a penalty shootout to get past Bundesliga team Hertha Berlin after a 1-1 draw.</p>

<p>Fans would rather forget that performance, as Freiburg have responded well since then. They have picked up momentum at the right time and are coming into Thursday&rsquo;s match on the back of four straight wins.</p>

<p>In this article, we will take a detailed look at the upcoming <strong>DFB-Pokal semi-final</strong> clash between <strong>Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg</strong>. Let&rsquo;s first take a look at the complete squads of both teams below.</p>

<h2><strong>Stuttgart Complete Squad for DFB-Pokal 2025-2026</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Goalkeepers:</strong> Fabian Bredlow, Stefan Drljaca, Alexander N&uuml;bel, Florian Hellstern</p>

<p><strong>Defenders:</strong> Ameen Al-Dakhil, Ramon Hendriks, Josha Vagnoman, Maximilian Mittelstadt, Luca Jaquez, Pascal Stenzel, Lorenz Assignon, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Julian Chabot, Finn Jeltsch</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong> Angelo Stiller, Chris F&uuml;hrich, Bilal El Khannouss, Atakan Karazor, Nikolas Nartey, Chema Andr&eacute;s, Yannik Keitel</p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong> Tiago Tom&aacute;s, Ermedin Demirović, Deniz Undav, Jamie Leweling, Justin Diehl, Badredine Bouanani, Jeremy Ar&eacute;valo, Lazar Jovanović, Noah Darvich, Silas Katompa Mvumpa</p>

<h2><strong>SC Freiburg Complete Squad for DFB-Pokal 2025-2026</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Goalkeepers:</strong> Noah Atubolu, Florian M&uuml;ller, Jannik Huth</p>

<p><strong>Defenders:</strong> Philipp Lienhart, Anthony Jung, Lukas K&uuml;bler, Matthias Ginter, Philipp Treu, Christian G&uuml;nter, Jordy Makengo, Maximilian Rosenfelder, Bruno Ogbus</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong> Maximilian Eggestein, Patrick Osterhage, Nicolas H&ouml;fler, Johan Manzambi, Daniel-Kofi Kyereh, Yuito Suzuki</p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong> Lucas H&ouml;ler, Vincenzo Grifo, Jan-Niklas Beste, Maximilian Philipp, Igor Matanović, Derry Scherhant, Cyriaque Iri&eacute;</p>

<h2><strong>Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg DFB-Pokal Semi-Final Match Preview</strong></h2>

<p>VfB Stuttgart are ready to face SC Freiburg in the 2025-26 <strong>DFB-Pokal semi-final</strong>. The match will be played at the MHP Arena and is expected to be a tight and exciting contest.</p>

<p>Stuttgart are coming into this game after a loss to Bayern Munich in the league. Their form has been a bit uneven lately, which could make things harder for them. However, playing at home under Sebastian Hoene&szlig; will give them some advantage. Keeping that in view, they will be hoping to put in a strong performance and book their place in the German Cup final.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Freiburg have won two of their last four matches and will be hoping to keep that run going. Julian Schuster&rsquo;s team have been fairly solid this season, and they still have a chance to go far in the UEFA Europa League.</p>

<p>SC Freiburg will be playing away from home in this cup match, but they are expected to give Stuttgart a tough fight. Considering that, they will be aiming to deliver a strong performance and reach the <strong>DFB-Pokal final </strong>with a convincing victory.</p>

<h2><strong>Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg: Team News</strong></h2>

<p>Stuttgart will miss centre-back Finn Jeltsch, who is out with a muscle injury. Because of that, Jeff Chabot and Ramon Hendriks could start in central defence for Hoeness&rsquo;s side on Thursday.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, left winger Justin Diehl and Lazar Jovanovic are also unavailable due to muscle and back problems. In their absence, Jamie Leweling, Chris Fuhrich, and Bilal El Khannouss are likely to play behind Deniz Undav.</p>

<p>For Freiburg, centre-back Max Rosenfelder is out with a hamstring injury. Matthias Ginter is expected to be joined by Bruno Ogbus in defence, playing in front of backup goalkeeper Florian M&uuml;ller.</p>

<p>Other than that, midfielders Daniel-Kofi Kyereh and Patrick Osterhage are still recovering from injuries, so they won&rsquo;t be available for this crucial clash. Because of this, Maximilian Eggestein and Johan Manzambi are likely to play in the middle, helping to support the attacking Yuito Suzuki.</p>

<h2><strong>Venue Details of Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg DFB-Pokal Semi-Final Match</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Venue:</strong> MHP Arena in Stuttgart, Germany</li>
	<li><strong>Competition:</strong> DFB-Pokal 2025-26</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Final Words</strong></h2>

<p>Stuttgart are still in the race for a Champions League spot in the Bundesliga, but their form has been up and down lately. It&rsquo;s not clear yet if they can step up in a big semi-final against a strong team.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Freiburg lost their last game against Stuttgart, but they are in good shape now. They have won four matches in a row and six of their last seven, so they are likely to give a tough fight away from home.</p>

<p>Considering these factors, we can expect a thrilling match ahead that will test the nerves of both sides. Stuttgart will have some advantage due to home conditions, but they can&rsquo;t underestimate Freiburg, who are currently in a very good form.</p>

Stuttgart and SC Freiburg will come head to head against each other in the upcoming DFB-Pokal semi final clash. It is expected to be a tough contest, because both sides are eager to secure victory.

Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg DFB-Pokal Semi Final Match Analysis

<p><strong>Bayern Munich</strong> beat Leverkusen 2-0 in the latest DFB Cup clash to book a place in the final of the tournament. They controlled most of the match and made sure of the win with a late goal in stoppage time.</p>

<p>Vincent Kompany made seven changes to the team that won 4-2 against VfB Stuttgart. Players like Manuel Neuer, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, and Harry Kane came back into the starting XI, showcasing Bayern&rsquo;s strong commitment towards the match. The return of Kane specifically stood out as he looked sharp and full of energy from the beginning.</p>

<p>Bayern started strongly at the BayArena and kept <strong>Leverkusen</strong> under pressure in their own half. They created several chances, as the home side failed to match their momentum and tactics. Talking about the early chances, Upamecano missed a close-range effort, while Luis D&iacute;az was denied by Mark Flekken after a powerful attempt.</p>

<p>Their pressure finally paid off in the 22nd minute when Leverkusen&rsquo;s defences stumbled due to sustained pressure. After a throw-in, Jamal Musiala sent a cross into the box, and Kane was there to tap it in from close range to give Bayern a well-earned lead in the semi-final.</p>

<p>After the first goal, <strong>Bayern Munich</strong> kept control of the game. Michael Olise tried a shot from distance that Flekken saved, and Harry Kane came close to scoring again just before halftime. Meanwhile, Leverkusen struggled in attack in the first half and didn&rsquo;t manage a single shot on target.</p>

<p>After the break, the home side looked a bit more active. Nathan Tella tested Manuel Neuer with a long-range effort, but the Bayern keeper dealt with it easily. Soon after, Robert Andrich also made a strong block to stop Musiala from making it 2-0.</p>

<p>As the game went on, <strong>Leverkusen </strong>pushed harder and spent more time in Bayern&rsquo;s half, but they couldn&rsquo;t break through a tight defence.</p>

<p>In stoppage time, as <strong>Leverkusen</strong> pushed everyone forward, Bayern found space on the counter. Luis D&iacute;az first missed a chance from a good position in the 91st minute, but afterwards Leon Goretzka drove down the right and sent a perfect ball into the middle for D&iacute;az. He took a few steps and finished calmly from around 13 meters out, giving Bayern an unassailable lead of 2-0. This eventually helped the German football giants to secure victory and book their place in the <strong>DFB-Pokal finals</strong> after a long period of time.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

Bayern Munich defeated Leverkusen in the recent DFB-Pokal Semi-Final. They won the match by 2-0, securing a confirmed spot in the tournament finals after a long period of time.

Bayern Munich Secure DFB-Pokal Final Spot with Win Over Leverkusen

<h2>Why This DFB-Pokal Could Be Germany&rsquo;s Gateway to Europe</h2>

<h3>All Eyes on the DFB-Pokal Europa League Spot in 2025&ndash;26</h3>

<p>The DFB-Pokal Europa League spot is more than just a reward. The DFB-Pokal represents the easiest and quickest way to qualify for the UEFA Europa League by many clubs. The cup also gives the smaller teams a fair opportunity to participate in Europe, as the better teams tend to secure their place in the Bundesliga.</p>

<p>The rivalry is even stronger in the 2025 26 season. Clubs are now aware that the stakes are greater than ever. The DFB-Pokal comes along with silverware. It gives access to UEFA football and to the German Supercup.</p>

<h2>Why the Cup Winner Goes to Europe</h2>

<p>The DFB-Pokal winning team qualifies automatically to Europa League. Instead of qualifying, they get in the group stages directly. That is a huge blow to clubs that are not in the top four in the Bundesliga. It implies receiving European matches without being at the top of the league.</p>

<p>In case the cup winner has already qualified for the UEFA Champions League via the Bundesliga, the DFB-Pokal Europa League place will be offered to the next Bundesliga table ranking team that has yet to qualify for Europe.</p>

<p>The DFB-Pokal has been a second route to European football through this system. Each team in the contest is aware of what is at stake in round one.</p>

<h2>Who Can Benefit the Most</h2>

<p>The most beneficial club is the mid-table Bundesliga clubs in the DFB-Pokal and Europa League place. They find it very difficult to finish in the top four. However, five victories in the cup might alter it all. It provides an opportunity to make money and gain popularity on the European stage.</p>

<p>Now, second-division clubs can also make it to Europe through the DFB-Pokal. It has already occurred. It provides hope and a reason why all the clubs should take the tournament seriously.</p>

<p>In some clubs, the DFB-Pokal is also the primary goal of the season. This is their quickest route into Europe, and it is a huge financial incentive too.</p>

<h2>What Happens After Winning the Cup</h2>

<p>There is more than qualifying for the Europa League with the cup. The winner of the DFB-Pokal also competes in the German Supercup against the league winner. This is a high-profile game held prior to the start of the season. It attracts greater media attention and an additional trophy opportunity.</p>

<p>Thus, in a single win, a team is able to gain three things. They are DFB-Pokal winners. They get into the UEFA Europa League. In addition, they are involved in the Supercup. To most clubs, this triple prize is huge.</p>

<h2>Financial Boost From UEFA Entry</h2>

<p>Playing in the <strong>UEFA Europa League</strong> brings in money. UEFA gives cash for each stage of the tournament. Clubs earn extra from ticket sales, broadcast rights, and sponsor deals. This makes the <strong>DFB-Pokal Europa League spot</strong> not just a title but a long-term benefit.</p>

<p>Even group stage matches bring in hundreds of thousands of euros. Clubs can also attract better players with European football on offer. It helps with visibility and reputation.</p>

<p>For small clubs or those rebuilding, this is a big reason to aim for the DFB-Pokal. The matchday income and European exposure can help them grow.</p>

<h2>The Real Meaning of the DFB-Pokal Europa League Spot</h2>

<p>The DFB-Pokal Europa League spot is now a direct route into Europe. Teams that chase this goal are not just chasing glory. They are also planning smart. A cup win can lead to European football. It can bring in new fans and boost club revenue. It puts them on the same stage as top UEFA teams.</p>

<h2>Final Word on the 2025&ndash;26 DFB-Pokal and UEFA Entry</h2>

<p>This year, the DFB-Pokal matters more. The Europa League qualification attached to it gives every match extra meaning. For some teams, it may be the only path to UEFA football.</p>

<p>Fans feel the importance too. Clubs are now putting out their best lineups. The DFB-Pokal Europa League spot adds purpose to every game. One win can change everything. The winner gets a ticket to Europe. They also get a shot at the Supercup. For many clubs, this is the most important road of their season.</p>

See how winning the DFB-Pokal in 2025–26 earns Europa League qualification and a Supercup spot. Full UEFA entry details and rewards.

Why This DFB-Pokal Could Be Germany’s Gateway to Europe

<h1>How Much Are Teams Playing For in DFB-Pokal 2025&ndash;26?</h1>

<h3>All About DFB-Pokal Prize Money and Round-by-Round Earnings</h3>

<p>The DFB-Pokal prize money is beyond a bonus. It is a huge revenue source for numerous clubs. Whether it is amateur teams or professionals playing in the Bundesliga, all the teams go out on the pitch with full knowledge of how many points are riding on every round. The prizes increase by the 2025- 26 season, and each round offers a new cash prize. The structure of the complete prize distribution is explained below.</p>

<h2>DFB-Pokal 2025&ndash;26 Prize Money Overview</h2>

<p>The DFB-Pokal prize money is ever-increasing. With more money coming in through TV rights and sponsorship deals, the German FA has been able to bump up the payments on all levels of the competition. The aim is to make the cup an attractive and fair competition for clubs of all sizes.</p>

<h2>How Much Does Each Round Pay</h2>

<p>Here is a clear breakdown of earnings per round in the DFB-Pokal 2025&ndash;26 season.</p>

<h3>First Round</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Each team that qualifies receives a guaranteed amount</li>
	<li>Win the match, and you move on with extra cash</li>
	<li>Total payout for winners is around &euro;215000</li>
</ul>

<h3>Second Round</h3>

<ul>
	<li>The prize increases to about &euro;431000 for each winner</li>
	<li>More TV coverage means bigger broadcast revenue</li>
	<li>Clubs can also make extra from full stadiums and media bonuses</li>
</ul>

<h3>Round of 16</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Prize money jumps again</li>
	<li>Winners collect roughly &euro;862000</li>
	<li>By this stage, teams begin to feel real financial rewards</li>
</ul>

<h3>Quarterfinals</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Each quarterfinal winner gets around &euro;1300000</li>
	<li>Even the losing teams still walk away with good money</li>
	<li>The quarterfinal stage is one of the most-watched</li>
</ul>

<h3>Semifinals</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Winning clubs earn about &euro;2600000</li>
	<li>There is also added media and sponsor revenue</li>
	<li>Both winners go on to fight for the cup and the biggest payday</li>
</ul>

<h3>Final</h3>

<ul>
	<li>The winner gets &euro;4200000 in direct prize money</li>
	<li>Runner-up takes home roughly &euro;2600000</li>
</ul>

<p>In the case of small clubs, it may finance an entire season or stadium renovations. The economic windfall is an addition to the competition earnings in Europe by the larger clubs. There is no empty-handed team in the competition.</p>

<h2>Why DFB-Pokal Prize Money Matters</h2>

<p>The DFB-Pokal prize money is valued in German football. It lets lower-division clubs dream and expand. It assists in offsetting the costs, travel and player salaries. It also increases the weight of each and every fixture. Such as, a fourth division club winning one that is in the Bundesliga does not automatically translate to the next round. This entails hundreds of thousands of euros as well. This can be utilized in order to upgrade the facilities or sign better players.</p>

<h2>Final Thoughts on 2025&ndash;26 Prize Distribution</h2>

<p>The DFB-Pokal prize money in 2025&ndash;26 is one of the biggest in history. With every round, clubs have more to gain. From the first whistle to the final. Each game carries real financial rewards. The structure is clear and fair. And it offers real benefits to every club that competes. No matter the size or budget. Every team is playing for something big this season.</p>

See the full DFB-Pokal 2025–26 prize money breakdown with earnings per round and total prize distribution explained for every club.

How Much Are Teams Playing For in DFB-Pokal 2025–26?

<p>The first round of the 2025/26 DFB-Pokal has just been revealed, including the complete schedule behind the DFB. Play will consist of 30 matches between 15 and 18 August. The two additional games will be played on 26 and 27 August. These are Bayern Munich and VfB Stuttgart, who begin later because of the Supercup.</p>

<p>There have already been rumours amongst fans about the possibility of upsets. The initial round is the one that brings surprises. There is a chance that smaller division teams can cause the big clubs trouble. It is a knockout cup, and no game is irrelevant. One objective may determine the future of a club.</p>

<p>You can check the full schedule on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dfb.de/news/times-and-dates-of-2025/26-dfb-pokal-first-round-ties-announced">Official DFB site</a>.</p>

<h2>Highlights to Watch</h2>

<h3>FC G&uuml;tersloh vs Union Berlin (15 August, 18:00 CEST)</h3>

<p>This is a fourth-tier team against a team that plays in the Bundesliga. It is an actual David and Goliath game. It is adored by the fans due to the reason that the smaller clubs tend to play without anything to lose. It will be an exciting stadium, and there will be plenty of zeal on the part of the home team.</p>

<h3>Bayer Leverkusen vs Sonnenhof Gro&szlig;aspach (15 August, 18:00 CEST)</h3>

<p>Leverkusen will be the clear favorites, but the underdog is a force to be reckoned with. The cup matches are always unpredictable. The smaller team has a chance to score if the big team slips up even once. Leverkusen has little time to prove itself.</p>

<h3>FC Saarbr&uuml;cken vs 1. FC Magdeburg (15 August, 18:00 CEST)</h3>

<p>Saarbr&uuml;cken has strong home support and will want to make the most of it. Magdeburg will be a tough opponent. This could be a very close game, with fans likely to see a back-and-forth, see-saw battle.</p>

<h3>Arminia Bielefeld vs Werder Bremen (15 August, 20:45 CEST)</h3>

<p>Last season, Bielefeld upset Bremen in the cup. The crowd will be lively, and the team will be eager to recreate that magic. Bremen cannot take anything for granted. This could be one of the first surprises of the tournament.</p>

<h2>Watch on Tapmad</h2>

<p>All games of the first round can be watched live on Tapmad. All the action can be enjoyed in one place by the fans. You can see Bayern, Leverkusen, or Grovel, or one of the smaller teams, striving for an upset. Tapmad captures all the goals, saves, and key moments from start to finish. Whether you cheer for the giants or root for the underdogs, Tapmad has got it all.</p>

<h2>Supercup Participants Join Later</h2>

<h3>Eintracht Braunschweig vs VfB Stuttgart (26 August, 20:45 CEST)</h3>

<p>Stuttgart enters here as the reigning cup holder. However, the Supercup delayed their game. Fans can expect a strong showing.</p>

<h3>SV Wehen Wiesbaden vs Bayern Munich (27 August, 20:45 CEST)</h3>

<p>Bayern kick things off midweek. The champions will be hosted by a smaller club. History shows that smaller clubs sometimes step up to the plate. It will be a game worth following.</p>

<h2>Why These Round One Ties Matter</h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Upset potential:</strong> The early home advantage is given to the smaller clubs. This can spell the difference.</li>
	<li><strong>Match sharpness:</strong> The best clubs must discover the tempo as early as the first whistle. No pushovers.</li>
	<li><strong>Local pride:</strong> Teams can get the boost of playing in front of their home crowd. The cup games add some special dynamism.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Key Fixtures at a Glance</h2>

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:497px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p><strong>Date</strong></p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p><strong>Match</strong></p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p><strong>Time (CEST)</strong></p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>15 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>G&uuml;tersloh vs Union Berlin</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>18:00</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>15 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>Leverkusen vs Gro&szlig;aspach</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>18:00</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>15 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>Saarbr&uuml;cken vs Magdeburg</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>18:00</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>15 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>Bielefeld vs Bremen</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>20:45</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>26 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>Braunschweig vs Stuttgart</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>20:45</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			<p>27 August</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:220px">
			<p>Wiesbaden vs Bayern Munich</p>
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:153px">
			<p>20:45</p>
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>What Fans Need to Know</h2>

<p>The leading clubs should balance their squad and keep their players fresh. Every match counts. For smaller teams, this is a chance to shine. A strong performance can build confidence and momentum. The first round often sets the tone for the rest of the season. Fans can expect goals, drama, and maybe a few surprises. This is what makes the DFB-Pokal so thrilling.</p>

2025/26 DFB-Pokal first-round matchups revealed with key fixtures, potential upsets, and all the action fans can’t miss this season.

2025/26 DFB-Pokal First Round Matchups Revealed

<p>The first round of the 2025/26 DFB-Pokal is packed with action. Fans can expect goals, drama, and some potential shocks. The knockout format means one bad day can end a favourite&rsquo;s campaign.</p>

<p>This round runs from <strong>15 August to 18 August</strong>, with Supercup participants joining later on <strong>26 and 27 August</strong>. Every game counts, and even smaller clubs have a chance to make history.</p>

<p>Official source: <a href="https://www.dfb.de/news/times-and-dates-of-2025/26-dfb-pokal-first-round-ties-announced">DFB</a></p>

<p><strong>Key Matches to Watch</strong></p>

<p><strong>Saarbr&uuml;cken vs 1. FC Magdeburg (15 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
Saarbr&uuml;cken has home support and will want to make it count. Magdeburg will be tough. Expect a close, see-saw battle.</p>

<p><strong>G&uuml;tersloh vs Union Berlin (15 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
A classic David vs Goliath game. A fourth-tier team hosting a Bundesliga side. The underdogs could cause a surprise.</p>

<p><strong>SG vs Leverkusen (15 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
Leverkusen has little room for error. The underdog will push hard. One mistake could change everything.</p>

<p><strong>Arminia Bielefeld vs Werder Bremen (15 August, 11:45 pm)</strong><br />
Bielefeld shocked Bremen last season. Sparks can fly again. Bremen cannot take anything for granted.</p>

<h2><strong>16 August Fixtures</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Pirmasens vs Hamburger SV (16 August, 4:00 pm)</strong> &ndash; Lower-league team with home advantage.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>BFC Dynamo vs VfL Bochum (16 August, 4:00 pm)</strong> &ndash; Both sides need a strong start.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Eintracht Norderstedt vs FC St. Pauli (16 August, 6:30 pm)</strong> &ndash; Underdogs with local support.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>SV Sandhausen vs RB Leipzig (16 August, 6:30 pm)</strong> &ndash; Leipzig must stay sharp; home team will fight hard.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Bahlinger vs Heidenheim (16 August, 6:30 pm)</strong> &ndash; Interesting matchup with upset potential.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Hemelingen vs Wolfsburg, Hansa vs Hoffenheim, FV Illertissen vs N&uuml;rnberg (16 August, 6:30 pm)</strong> &ndash; Keep an eye on surprises.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Energie Cottbus vs Hannover 96, Lotte vs SC Freiburg, VfB L&uuml;beck vs Darmstadt (16 August, 9:00 pm)</strong> &ndash; Evening fixtures with tension and goals.</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>17 August Fixtures</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Viktoria K&ouml;ln vs Paderborn (17 August, 4:00 pm)</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Engers vs Eintracht Frankfurt (17 August, 4:00 pm)</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Evening matches at 6:30 pm:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Jahn Regensburg vs K&ouml;ln</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>RSV Eintracht vs 1. FCK</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>BW Lohne vs F&uuml;rth</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Lok Leipzig vs Schalke</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>ZFC Meuselwitz vs Karlsruher</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Atlas Delmenhorst vs M&ouml;nchengladbach</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Night matches at 9:00 pm:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>FC 08 Homburg vs Holstein Kiel</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Ulm vs SV Elversberg</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Hallescher vs Augsburg</strong></li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>18 August Fixtures</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Dynamo vs Mainz (18 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>1. FC Schweinfurt vs D&uuml;sseldorf (18 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Preu&szlig;en M&uuml;nster vs Hertha (18 August, 9:00 pm)</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Essen vs Dortmund (18 August, 11:45 pm)</strong><br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>Every team will fight hard. Smaller clubs want to make a mark. Big clubs must stay sharp.</p>

<h2><strong>Supercup Participants Join Later</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Eintracht Braunschweig vs VfB Stuttgart (26 August, 11:45 pm)</strong> &ndash; Cup holders start here. Their Supercup delayed the first-round kickoff.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>SV Wehen Wiesbaden vs Bayern Munich (27 August, 11:45 pm)</strong> &ndash; Bayern starts midweek against a smaller club. History shows surprises often happen in these fixtures.</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Watch Every Game on Tapmad</strong></h2>

<p>Fans can stream all first-round games live on Tapmad. Every goal, save, and moment from opening whistle to final kick is covered. From giants like Bayern and Leverkusen to underdogs aiming for glory, Tapmad has it all.</p>

<p>The first round sets the tone for the season. Expect goals, drama, and maybe a few shocks. That&rsquo;s why the DFB-Pokal is so thrilling.</p>

DFB-Pokal 2025/26: First Round Fixtures

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DFB-Pokal 2025/26

VfB Stuttgart defeated SC Freiburg 2-1 in an exciting DFB Pokal 2025/26 clash, showcasing a strong attacking performance. Stuttgart struck early to take control of the game and doubled their advantage with a well-taken second goal. Freiburg fought back with a goal of their own to keep the contest alive, but Stuttgart held their nerve to secure a hard-fought victory. With this result, Stuttgart moved ahead confidently in the competition. Watch the Stuttgart vs Freiburg Highlights and relive all the thrilling moments in HD, only on Tapmad.

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DFB Pokal Football - VfB Stuttgart vs SC Freiburg - Semi Final 2

Bayern Munich defeated Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 in the DFB Pokal 2025/26 Semi-Final (1st semi-final) held on 22 April 2026. Harry Kane opened the scoring in the first half giving Bayern an early lead and control of the match. Luis Díaz sealed the victory with a late goal in stoppage time, confirming Bayern’s dominance. With this result Bayern Munich won the match 2-0 and advanced to the final.

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DFB Pokal Football - Leverkusen vs Bayern - Semi Final 1

DFB-Pokal 2025/26

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DFB-Pokal 2025/26 - Highlights