The opening weekend of the 2026-27 DFB-Pokal delivered all the intrigue and drama that German football fans have come to expect from this storied competition. From nerve-racking extra time to a jaw-dropping goal-fest in Berlin, established Bundesliga sides faced spirited resistance from lower-division challengers, while individual brilliance and remarkable comebacks set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable cup campaign.
Match Results
| Home Team | Score | Away Team |
|---|---|---|
 FC Würzburger Kickers | 1 - 2 |  1. Köln |
 SC Verl | 0 - 3 |  Hamburger SV |
 VSG Altglienicke | 8 - 9 |  VfL Wolfsburg |
 Hallescher | 2 - 5 |  FC Schalke 04 |
The most eye-catching contest of the day unfolded in the German capital, where fifth-tier underdogs VSG Altglienicke nearly pulled off a sensational upset against VfL Wolfsburg. In a match that will live long in DFB-Pokal folklore, the hosts matched the 2015 cup winners for every blow, resulting in an astonishing 8-9 scoreline. The spectacle was heightened by the presence of John Brooks, the Germany-born American international, who lined up for Altglienicke against his former club. Despite their valiant display and relentless determination, the Berliners were ultimately edged out, but not before capturing the hearts of neutrals with their fearless approach.
Elsewhere, FC Schalke 04 had their own scare against fourth-division Hallescher FC. Despite dominating the ball, Schalke struggled to convert their superiority into goals during regular time and even found themselves trailing. The tie was only settled in extra time, as experienced striker Edin Džeko came off the bench to make a decisive impact, helping the favorites to a 5-2 victory. The result, though flattering, belied the challenge posed by Hallescher FC and underlined the unpredictability that makes the DFB-Pokal a beloved fixture in the German football calendar.
Meanwhile, Hamburger SV put down a marker with a professional 3-0 win away to SC Verl. Danish midfielder Albert Gronbaek starred with a brace, scoring late in the first half and again immediately after the break, before Louis Lemke added a third to seal the result. The match also featured debut appearances for several new HSV signings, suggesting a refreshed and confident squad as they look to make a deep run in this season’s tournament.
Rounding out the action, 1. FC Köln survived a determined challenge from FC Würzburger Kickers, securing a narrow 2-1 win to advance to the second round. While details were scarce, the result itself highlighted the competitive edge that lower-league teams bring to the early rounds, pushing their top-flight visitors all the way.
With dramatic comebacks, star performances, and an unforgettable high-scoring thriller, the DFB-Pokal’s opening round has set the bar high for the rest of the competition. As the dust settles, fans are left eagerly anticipating the next chapter of cup magic that only Germany’s knockout tournament can provide.