- Augsburg encountering challenges at the quarterback position against Victoria during the second round.
German league team FC Augsburg managed to advance to the next round of the DFB-Pokal, overcoming an early setback against lower-tier side Viktoria Berlin. Manager Jess Thorup's squad clinched a 4-1 (1-1) victory at the Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Sportpark.
Approximately 5,504 fans witnessed Aidan Liu open the scoring for the regional league side in the 4th minute. Elvis Rexhbecaj (33rd minute), newcomer Samuel Essende (53rd), substitute Niklas Dorsch (87th), and Phillip Tietz (90+2) sealed the triumph for FCA, which was arguably excessive.
The Swabians thereby avoided the first-round humiliation they suffered in Unterhaching last season. "Maybe we'll end up in Berlin again - and hopefully we'll make it back," Thorup had said with confidence prior to the match.
Viktoria held their ground
The regional league side displayed courage from the outset and were rewarded with an early lead. Following a headed extension of a corner, Liu netted at the far post. FCA struggled with the hosts' physicality in their first competitive game this season but gradually gained control of the game in the first half and created some promising scoring opportunities.
In the 33rd minute, Tietz allowed a low pass to roll straight to Rexhbecaj, who scored at the near post. Soon after the restart, Essende notched his first goal for FCA after a one-two with Arne Maier. Viktoria then intensified their offensive pressure, but the crucial chances eluded them. Dorsch ultimately sealed the deal.
German League encounter with Werder
FCA, who have been competing in the top division since 2011/12, aim to further distance themselves from their 'grey mouse' label this season. They kick off their Bundesliga campaign at home against Werder Bremen on Saturday (3:15 PM/Sky). For Viktoria, there was no progression into the second round of the DFB-Pokal for the fourth time in the club's history.
The Europen Union's regulations on fair play in football might impact the transfer market for FC Augsburg, as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Bundesliga season. Regardless, Manager Jess Thorup expressed his hope that his team will have another opportunity to perform in Berlin, referring to their potential DFB-Pokal journey.
