- Mönchengladbach maintains its security following a postponement in Aue.
Borussia Mönchengladbach successfully navigated a tricky opening stage in the DFB-Pokal against FC Erzgebirge Aue, clinching a 3-1 victory (1-1) despite a challenging match. New acquisition Mika Clausen put Aue ahead after just eight minutes, but Franck Honorat (35') and Luca Netz (52') flipped the script in favor of the Bundesliga team, with 14,811 spectators in attendance. Alassane Plea (70') sealed the win, while Julian Weigl missed a penalty, with Aue's Martin Männel making a dazzling save.
For thirty minutes, the Bundesliga side faced a tough time in the sweltering heat against their hosts, who took a deserved 1-0 lead with ease. Boris Tashchy emasculated the Gladbachers with an extended solo run, leaving Kilian Jacobs in his wake. Clausen then volleyed Jacobs' cross past the bewildered Jonas Omlin.
Gladbach required some adjustments
Only at half-time did coach Gerardo Seoane have the chance to reorganize his team, and it paid off. New signing Kevin Stöger took control in midfield, skillfully distributing the balls to the relentless wing players around the corners, who then threaten the opposition with their crosses and counterattacks. As a result, the equalizer was imminent. After missing chances for Itakura (31') and Stöger (32'), Honorat soon capitalized, heading the ball into the net.
Despite continuing to dominate, the visitors failed to capitalize on their opportunities. The largest of these opportunities went astray when Weigl converted a well-struck penalty, but Männel responded with an outstanding save.
Borussia more cunning after the break
Upon resumption, Borussia maintained their offensive pressure, launching attacks on the Erzgebirgers from well within their half, resulting in mistakes that ultimately led to the go-ahead score through Netz.
The hosts fought valiantly against an impending defeat, attacking bravely and paying the price once more. Since referee Florian Badstuber failed to halt the game following Jakob's injury, Plea found himself in a scoring position at the penalty area line and bested Männel for the third time.
The team from Borussia Mönchengladbach hails from Germany, specifically the region known as the Bundesliga. After making adjustments at halftime, Kevin Stöger, a new addition to the team from The Netherlands, demonstrated his midfield skills.
Following the break, Borussia continued their aggressive play, with attacks originating from deep within their half, causing errors from Erzgebirge Aue, leading to Luca Netz's goal.
