SV Sandhausen, a regional league side, faced a challenging encounter in the first round of the DFB-Pokal, ultimately falling to a 4-2 defeat against Bundesliga’s RB Leipzig. Despite the disparity in league standing, Sandhausen demonstrated early ambition, taking the lead in just the third minute. A cross from Herrmann was deflected by Vandervoordt, setting up Ampadu Wiafe for the opening goal.
Leipzig responded swiftly, with Diomande equalizing in the sixth minute following a header assist from Orban. Sandhausen briefly regained the advantage in the 18th minute, Herrmann scoring after a pass from Kolbe. However, Leipzig again drew level, Orban converting a free kick from Xavi in the 23rd minute.
The second half saw Leipzig establish greater control over the match. A pivotal moment arrived in the 79th minute when a hesitant challenge from Sandhausen’s goalkeeper, Lyska, allowed Banzuzi to score into an empty net, giving Leipzig the lead for the first time.
Xavi sealed the victory in added time, finishing a flowing passing move with Ouedraogo, leaving the Sandhausen goalkeeper no chance. The match concluded with a 4-2 scoreline.
In other notable first-round matches, VfL Wolfsburg recorded a decisive 9-0 victory against SV Hemelingen, TSG Hoffenheim won 4-0 at Rostock and 1. FC Heidenheim defeated Bahlingen 5-0. The matches between FV Illertissen and 1. FC Nürnberg (3-3) and Eintracht Norderstedt against FC St. Pauli (0-0) went into extra time to determine the winners.