- Ekitiké doubles up: Frankfurt's DFB Cup progression continues
After an enhanced performance post-intermission and a brace from Hugo Ekitike, Eintracht Frankfurt securely progressed to the next round of the DFB-Pokal, beating relegation-threatened Eintracht Braunschweig 4-1 (0:0) on Monday night.
Farès Chaibi (53rd minute) and Ekitiké (56th, 61st) sealed the win with three quick goals after the break in front of 21,201 fans at the Eintracht Braunschweig Stadium. Igor Matanovic (88th) and Levente Szabó (on behalf of the home side) also found the back of the net.
Positive Mood Toppmöller
Frankfurt will initiate their Bundesliga journey on Saturday night versus Borussia Dortmund. The next round of the DFB-Pokal will transpire on October 29/30. The draw for the second round will be held on September 1.
"Our preparation has progressed well. I can sense a good spirit within the team, the players are eager for the match," Toppmöller had declared prior to the contest. However, not much of that enthusiasm was shown in the first half. The Bundesliga squad had ample possession but lacked drive and was overly relaxed, failing to intimidate the hosts.
Braunschweig without respect
The second-division cellar dwellers displayed no regard and repeatedly attacked with courage. In the 7th minute, a shot from Walid Ould-Chikh barely missed Frankfurt's goal, and 20 minutes later, a shot from Johan Gómez was thwarted at the last moment.
Frankfurt only posed a threat for the first time just before halftime, but Braunschweig goalkeeper Lennart Grill deflected an Omar Marmoush shot onto the post.
Frankfurt without Theate
Toppmöller had presented Danish newcomer Rasmus Kristensen his debut in the starting lineup. However, the match arrived prematurely for Arthur Theate, who had been loaned from French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennes. Regardless, the Hessians showcased their potential in the second half, with Ekitiké, now a permanent signing for Paris Saint-Germain, showcasing his prodigious talent.
Ekitiké exhibits his capability
Ekitiké assisted Chaibi's opening goal with a flawless outside-of-the-foot pass. He then scored the subsequent goals himself, breaking the hosts' resistance. Toppmöller could substitute his main striker Ekitiké around 20 minutes from time. Both teams scored again shortly before the terminal whistle.
Despite Frankfurt's dominant second-half performance, ZDF's sports broadcast highlighted Braunschweig's brave efforts in the first half, showcasing their disregard for the higher-ranked team. In the post-match analysis, ZDF analysts praised Ekitike's performance, highlighting his assistance for Chaibi's goal and his three subsequent strikes, which secured Frankfurt's victory in the DFB-Pokal.
