In the DFB‑Pokal quarter‑final, SC Freiburg edged out second‑division side Hertha BSC 5‑4 in a penalty shoot‑out after a 1‑1 draw that stood at the end of both regulation time and extra time.
The match kicked off with a powerful performance from the home team. Hertha began energetically, pressing high and attacking vigorously. Freiburg, however, adjusted their approach early in the first half, disrupting the hosts’ build‑up and keeping the scoreline unchanged, with neither side taking advantage of the opportunities that arose. The anticipated class difference between the clubs was not evident on the pitch.
The second half remained high‑intensity, but no goal materialised. Hertha pressed hard, while Freiburg, positioned slightly deeper, looked for counter‑attack chances. Both teams had moments in front of the goal, but neither could convert.
When the game proceeded to extra time, Yuito Suzuki struck in the 96th minute for Hertha, capitalising on a significant defensive mistake. Freiburg answered before the closing minutes, with Fabian Reese leveling the score in the 104th minute with a powerful long‑range shot. No further goals were scored, and the match was decided by penalties.
In the shoot‑out, the Bundesliga side’s steadiness prevailed, securing a 5‑4 win and a place in the next round.
