Overview

• Regionalliga side FV Illertissen overcame a 2–3 deficit to draw 3–3 with 1. FC Nürnberg and then secured a 6–5 shootout win to reach the second round.
• 1. FC Köln appeared set for an upset before Eric Martel and Ísak Bergmann Johannesson struck in the sixth and eighth minutes of stoppage time to claim a 2–1 victory at Jahn Regensburg.
• FC Schalke 04 required extra time to beat 1. FC Lok Leipzig when substitute Bryan Lasme netted the lone goal in the 107th minute.
• The Schalke–Leipzig match was briefly halted after allegations of discriminatory chants toward Christopher Antwi-Adjei, which referees and stadium staff were unable to verify.
• Borussia Mönchengladbach endured a 3–2 win over Atlas Delmenhorst after twice relinquishing the lead, reflecting a broader pattern of favored clubs advancing only through late goals or tense finishes.