- Union Berlin's Journey to Bielefeld: Clash between Berlin's Hertha and Heidenheim
Three-time Olympic Champion in 3x3 Basketball, Sonja Greinacher, brings intriguing cup challenges for Berlin soccer teams. 1. FC Union encounters third-tier side Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB-Pokal. Hertha BSC faces Bundesliga side 1. FC Heidenheim in the second round at the Olympic Stadium. This outcome transpired on Sunday at the German Football Museum in Dortmund.
Interestingly, Hertha has engaged in only two duels against Heidenheim throughout their history - both in cup competitions. A 4-0 triumph in the initial round in 1979 and a 3:2 win for Berliners in the quarter-finals in 2016 marked their history. When Heidenheim was promoted to the Bundesliga last year, Hertha suffered relegation to the second league - thus, avoiding each other.
"Competing under stadium lighting against a Bundesliga team - that's what makes it exciting! It's a fact: You contest a cup match to triumph and progress to the subsequent round," said Hertha's head coach, Christian Fiél. During the summer, Berliners procured Kevin Sessa from Heidenheim.
Union with no victories in Bielefeld for 14 years
Union has ventured to Bielefeld multiple times prior to this. Their last triumph there was in 2010 in the second league, a 2:1 result. Eversince, the results have been five draws and two defeats for Köpenickers in seven games in Bielefeld. Nevertheless, the Strong Ones remain the favorites.
"Bielefeld demonstrated in the first round against Hannover 96 that they aren't a pushover at home. Our objective is to advance to the next phase, so we'll prepare for the opponent as usual," said Union's managing director, Horst Heldt.
In the first round, Union, under the guidance of Bo Svensson, triumphed 1-0 over Greifswald FC. To everyone's surprise, Bielefeld bested Hannover 96 2-0. Hertha conquered Hansa Rostock 5-1. Opponent Heidenheim dispatched FC 08 Villingen 4-0.
Final on 24 May 2025
The second round matches will occur on 29 and 30 October 2024. The cup final will transpire on 24 May 2025 in Berlin at the Olympic Stadium.
The DFB Cup brings an opportunity for 1. FC Union to test their skills against third-tier side Arminia Bielefeld, a challenge they haven't won in Bielefeld for 14 years. Meanwhile, Hertha BSC, who have only faced 1. FC Heidenheim in cup competitions, aim to advance in their match, having a history of winning against Heidenheim in the DFB Cup.
