Borussia Monchengladbach responds to setbacks with inspiring objectives
Following Mainz 05, FC St. Pauli, and TSG Hoffenheim, the next Bundesliga team to triumph over the initial round of the cup was Borussia Mönchengladbach. An initial deficit and a missed penalty didn't hinder their progress.
Erzgebirge Aue vs Borussia Mönchengladbach 1:3 (1:1)
An auspicious beginning with thrilling objectives: Despite some resistance, Borussia Mönchengladbach managed to progress to the second round of the DFB-Pokal. The Bundesliga side defeated third-division team Erzgebirge Aue 3:1 (1:1), marking the 11th consecutive time they've scaled this opening hurdle. The game began with a flurry of exhilarating goals that set the tone for an otherwise challenging previous season.
Franck Honorat (35.) executed a scorpion kick, while Luca Netz (52.) found the target with a precise shot into the corner. Alassane Plea (70.) added another, giving them a decisive edge in the second half. Erzgebirge Aue had initially taken the lead with a well-timed attack, as Mika Clausen scored in the 8th minute. Just before halftime, Gladbach's Julian Weigl missed a penalty against Aue captain Martin Männel.
The season started off on a challenging note for Borussia, hoping for better times ahead. Finishing 14th in the previous season, the club had underperformed, but coach Gerardo Seoane was retained, winning every pre-season game and acquiring intriguing new signings: midfielder Kevin Stöger (from Bochum) and striker Tim Kleindienst (from Heidenheim) both featured in Saturday's lineup.
Erzgebirge Aue proved to be an unwelcome draw despite their status as a lower-tier team. The Saxons had already triumphed in two third-tier matches and demonstrated their confidence from the get-go. Via Borys Tashchy, the ball reached Kilian Jakob, whose cross was expertly finished by Clausen with a volley. After approximately 30 minutes, Gladbach found their rhythm, as Honorat's scorpion kick from nine meters marked the start of a game predominantly played in front of the hosts' goal.
TSV Schott Mainz vs Greuther Fürth 0:2 (0:1)
Greuther Fürth upheld their favorite status and advanced to the second round. They triumphed 2:0 (1:0) against sixth-tier team TSV Schott Mainz, with 4,235 spectators in attendance at the Bruchweg Stadium. The goals were scored by Dennis Srbeny (8th minute) and Marlon Mustapha (82.).
The guests enjoyed an advantageous position, with the underdog creating opportunities to level the score. Lennart Thum (19.) missed the best opportunity, failing to convert from five meters. Fürth's striker Julian Green hit the post. Unfortunately, Green's teammate Jomaine Consbruch was forced out due to a harsh tackle.
Although they faced difficulties in finishing their chances, the guests remained optimistic until the final whistle, playing courageously. However, Fürth defended well and ultimately secured the victory with Mustapha's goal, thus eliminating the brave hosts from the competition.
The following statement can be made after the game: The following shall be added to Borussia Mönchengladbach's cup victories - a 3-1 victory over Erzgebirge Aue, marking their 11th consecutive victory in the first round of the DFB-Pokal.
After the triumph, Borussia Mönchengladbach may consider saying: Following this win, we shall focus on maintaining our form as we prepare for the upcoming Bundesliga matches.
