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Bayern Munich Eyes Treble in German Cup Semis vs Leverkusen

The DFB-Pokal semifinals feature Bayern Munich, fresh from a Bundesliga title, visiting Bayer Leverkusen in pursuit of a treble. On Thursday, Cup holder VfB Stuttgart hosts SC Freiburg, who are also competing in the Europa League semifinals. Leverkusen sees the match as a final opportunity for a trophy this season, while Freiburg seeks success on multiple fronts for European qualification. Despite Bayern and Stuttgart being favorites, the German Cup has a long history of producing surprises.

Key Points: German Cup Semifinals: Bayern vs Leverkusen, Stuttgart vs Freiburg

  • Bayern Munich pursuing a treble
  • Leverkusen's last chance for silverware
  • Stuttgart aims to defend Cup title
  • Freiburg's historic European run continues
2 min read

Bayern Munich in Leverkusen, Stuttgart hosting Freiburg in German Cup

Bundesliga champ Bayern Munich visits Leverkusen in the DFB-Pokal semifinals. Stuttgart hosts Freiburg as both clubs chase European qualification and cup glory.

"surprises have been part of the German Cup since its inception in 1952."

Berlin, April 21

German football turns its attention to the national Cup semifinals this week, starting with Bundesliga champion Bayern Munich visiting Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday evening. The clash in Leverkusen will be followed on Thursday by a more regional affair between Cup holder VfB Stuttgart and SC Freiburg, who reached the Europa League semifinals in 2026.

Bayern, fresh from securing their 35th league title last weekend, are now pursuing a treble, while Leverkusen see this as their last realistic chance for silverware this season.

Leverkusen, coached by Kasper Hjulmand, has struggled for consistency, and a win over the in-form Bavarians could prove a turning point for Bayer. With Freiburg having already enjoyed a historic run in Europe, Stuttgart faces a difficult task at home.

While the team coached by Sebastian Hoeness is seeking to defend last year's Cup title, Freiburg are making progress on several fronts. Their league form could yet secure qualification for European competition, while the Europa League and the Cup offer further routes into continental football.

Winning the Europa League would take Freiburg into next season's Champions League group stage. The team coached by Julian Schuster faces Portuguese side Braga in the last four, while Nottingham meets Aston Villa in the other semifinal.

While Bayern and Stuttgart are seen as the favourites, surprises have been part of the German Cup since its inception in 1952.

A few days back. Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich recovered from a two-goal deficit to defeat Freiburg 3-2 away, with Lennart Karl scoring deep into stoppage time to seal a dramatic turnaround on Saturday.

Bayern travelled without Harry Kane, absent due to an ankle issue, yet still controlled possession early on. Tom Bischof tried his luck from distance, but Freiburg gradually imposed themselves and threatened through Philipp Treu, who fired narrowly wide.

Manuel Neuer was called into action with sharp saves against Lucas Holer and Philipp Lienhart, though both chances were later ruled offside. Freiburg maintained its aggressive pressing and found greater reward immediately after the break.

Johan Manzambi drove inside and struck from around 25 meters to open the scoring in the 46th minute. The hosts pressed for more, and Holer missed two clear opportunities before making it 2-0 in the 71st minute, finishing after Neuer failed to clear Beste's corner.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a neutral fan in India, I find the Freiburg story more exciting. A smaller club making the Europa League semis and still fighting in the Cup? That's proper football romance. Hope they can upset Stuttgart.
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Ananya R
The German Cup always has potential for upsets! Leverkusen at home is not an easy game for anyone. If they play with passion, they can definitely beat Bayern. Their season depends on this. All the best to Bayer! 🙏
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Vikram M
Respectfully, the article focuses a lot on Bayern. The real drama is in the other semi. Stuttgart defending their title at home against a Freiburg side flying high in Europe? That's a proper 50-50 clash. Can't wait to watch it late night here!
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Karthik V
Manuel Neuer is a legend, but that error for the second goal against Freiburg shows even the best can have an off day. Leverkusen will target set-pieces for sure. Hope both games are as dramatic as the league match described! 🤞
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Michael C
Great to see German football getting coverage. The depth of competition there is impressive. Freiburg potentially qualifying for the Champions League by winning the Europa League would be an incredible achievement for a club of their size.

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