Top game ahead: Bayern takes on Cologne in the cup, whereas Frankfurt clashes with BVB in another thrilling matchup
The German Football League (DFB) has announced the pairings for the second round of the DFB-Pokal, the German Cup competition. The draw, conducted by Bundesliga record referee Felix Brych, took place at the German Football Museum in Dortmund.
In an exciting turn of events, a high-stakes East German duel will take place in Cottbus between FV Illertissen and 1. FC Magdeburg. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams have shown impressive form in recent seasons.
Elsewhere, Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund will face off in a top clash. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams, as they are among the favourites to win the competition.
The favourites seemed to have prevailed in the opening round, with most of the top teams advancing. 1. FC Union Berlin, who have been in excellent form this season, advanced from the opening round. However, there were a few surprises, such as Werder Bremen, a Bundesliga team, losing in the opening round to Arminia Bielefeld.
Arminia Bielefeld, last season's finalists, will travel to face 1. FC Union Berlin in the second round. The final of the DFB-Pokal will take place on May 23, 2026, at the Berlin Olympic Stadium.
Other notable pairings include FC Bayern Munich, who will face 1. FC Cologne, and FC St. Pauli, who will take on TSG Hoffenheim. VfB Stuttgart will travel to face FSV Mainz 05 in another exciting matchup.
The second round of the DFB-Pokal is scheduled for October 28 and 29. The quarter-finals are scheduled for early December. The competition promises to be fierce, with each team fighting for a chance to lift the trophy on May 23, 2026, at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
