Overview

• Arminia Bielefeld defeated Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 in the DFB-Pokal semifinal, marking their first-ever appearance in the tournament's final.
• This victory makes Bielefeld the first third-division team to eliminate four Bundesliga clubs in a single DFB-Pokal season.
• The match, played in front of 26,601 fans at SchücoArena, showcased the team's tactical discipline and high pressing, which disrupted Leverkusen's usual style of play.
• Bayer Leverkusen's performance was widely criticized as uninspired, with coach Xabi Alonso and players acknowledging their shortcomings.
• Arminia's DFB-Pokal run has already secured nearly €10 million, providing a significant financial boost to the club as they prepare to face either RB Leipzig or VfB Stuttgart in the final on May 24, 2025.