DFB Cup
7:45 p.mFebruary 10, 2026
Quarter finals
Olympic Stadium
Referee: Patrick Ittrich, Germany
Hertha BSC
SC Freiburg
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
0.00
Expected Goals (xG)
0.00
Passing by
444 (79%)
Accurate passes
431 (82%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
1
G
Tjark Ernst
9.0
31
d
Marton Dardai
6.9
d
Tony Leistner
90+3′ Stumbled
44
d
Linus Gechter
6.3
33
m
Michał Karbownik
6.3
m
Paul Seguin (C)
105+2′ Holding
104′
10
m
Michael Cuisance
7.5
2
m
Julian Eitschberger
6.9
22
F
Martin Winkler
6.9
F
Fabian Reese
104′
9
F
Dawid Kownacki
7.0
21
G
Florian Müller
6.9
33
d
Jordi Makengo
6.6
37
d
Max Rosenfelder
7.0
28
d
Matthias Ginter
7.0
29
d
Philip Treu
7.0
6
m
Patrick Osterhage
6.3
8
m
Maximilian Eggestein (C)
6.3
7
m
Derry Scherhant
6.9
m
Yuito Suzuki
96′
19
m
Jan-Niklas Beste
6.9
31
F
Igor Matanović
5.6
No ranking data available for this league
SC Freiburg defeated Hertha BSC in a thrilling DFB Pokal clash, winning 5-4 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 after extra time. The dramatic shootout at the Olympiastadion saw the Bundesliga side advance.
The highly anticipated DFB Pokal clash pitted ambitious 2. Bundesliga side Hertha BSC against established Bundesliga 1 outfit SC Freiburg. Hertha, playing at their home Olympiastadion, were aiming for a major cup upset against their taller opponents.
The first half was a tight game, with both teams showing caution. Freiburg tried to control possession and probe the Hertha defence, creating a few half chances. Hertha, however, remained resolute, closing down spaces effectively.
Despite Freiburg’s offensive efforts, Hertha goalkeeper Tjark Ernst proved to be an impenetrable wall. Ernst made several crucial saves, denying Freiburg any clear lead. The tie remained firm and the first 45 minutes concluded without a goal.
The second half mirrored the first, with neither team able to break through the defensive lines. Substitutions were made to inject fresh energy, but the score remained goalless in regulation time. The match was destined for an extra 30 minutes of overtime.
The deadlock was finally broken in overtime. It was SC Freiburg who struck first in the 96th minute. Japan striker Yuito Suzuki found the back of the net, giving the visitors a crucial lead and igniting their traveling support.
Hertha BSC, spurred on by the home crowd, responded with impressive resistance. Striker Fabian Reese equalized for the capital club in the 104th minute. Reese’s goal sent Olympiastadion into a frenzy, setting up a nervy conclusion.
Both teams fought bravely for a decisive winner in the remaining extra time. The physical toll became apparent as players overcame fatigue. Despite late efforts, neither team could score again, pushing the exciting encounter into a penalty shoot-out.
The tension was palpable during the penalty shootout. Freiburg showed composure from the off, converting five of their six attempts. Hertha fought hard, but two missed penalties eventually saw them fall short, with Freiburg winning 5-4 in the end.
Statistically, Freiburg outshot Hertha in total shots (18 to 11), with 8 on target compared to Hertha’s 4. Hertha had a slight advantage in possession (52% to 48%). Tjark Ernst was the standout for Hertha, making 7 saves, while Fabian Reese provided the crucial equaliser.
SC Freiburg will now continue their journey in the DFB Pokal, carrying the momentum of this hard-fought victory. Hertha BSC, despite the defeat, can be proud of their tenacious performance against a strong Bundesliga opponent, showing their fighting spirit.
, winning a dramatic DFB Pokal penalty shootout 5-4. Yuito Suzuki and Fabian Reese scored in extra time before Freiburg secured progression.){kind=link}