Union Berlin secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Arminia Bielefeld in extra time, ending Bielefeld's DFB-Pokal campaign in the second round. The match, played on Wednesday evening, saw Union Berlin, a top-tier team, prevail against the second-division side after a gruelling battle.
Arminia Bielefeld's coach, Kniat, opted for an unchanged starting lineup from their recent victory. The defence featured Benjamin Boakye on the right, Tim Handwerker on the left, and Leon Schneider, Maximilian Großer, and Joel Felix in the centre. Mael Corboz, Marius Wörl, and Monju Thaddäus Momuluh shielded the defence in midfield. Noah Sarenren Bazee and Joel Grodowski led the attack.
The game was a tight affair, with both teams battling fiercely. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match went into extra time. Danilo Doekhi proved to be the hero for Union Berlin, scoring the decisive goal that sent the ten-man Bielefeld crashing out of the DFB-Pokal.
Union Berlin's resilience and determination ultimately proved too much for Arminia Bielefeld. The victory sees Union Berlin advance to the next round of the DFB-Pokal, while Arminia Bielefeld will have to focus on their league campaign. The match highlighted the unpredictable nature of cup competitions and the ability of teams to rise to the occasion.
Key Moments of the Match
- Arminia Bielefeld started with the same lineup as their recent win.
- The game was a close contest, ending 1-1 after regular time.
- Danilo Doekhi scored the winning goal for Union Berlin in extra time.
- Arminia Bielefeld were reduced to ten men.
What's Next?
Union Berlin will await the draw for the next round of the DFB-Pokal, hoping to continue their cup journey. Arminia Bielefeld will shift their focus back to their league ambitions and aim to bounce back from this disappointing defeat.