In a thrilling quarter-final showdown of the DFB Pokal, Bayer Leverkusen emerged victorious against 1.FC Köln in a classic ‘kleiner’ Rhein Derby, advancing to the semi-finals. However, their journey was anything but straightforward; they required a determined comeback and extra time to secure their place in the next round. The match illustrated the competitive spirit and unpredictability of the cup, showcasing that no team should be underestimated.

‘Pyrotechnik Ist doch kein Verbrechen

Wir werden dafür kämpfen

Und lassen Emotionen freien Lauf’

The electric atmosphere was ignited by the stunning pyrotechnic display from the Köln fans at the match’s outset, marking the beginning of a fiercely contested battle. As anticipated in a clash between a top-tier Bundesliga team and their second-division counterparts, Leverkusen dominated possession and attempted to control the tempo. Despite their control, most of their shots were half chances, with Alejandro Grimaldo’s spectacular free-kick striking the crossbar as their best effort. Jeremie Frimpong emerged as a persistent threat on the right flank for Leverkusen, causing significant headaches for Köln’s defense, yet he struggled to convert opportunities into goals during the first half, a recurring theme in his career. Against the run of play, Köln capitalized on a long ball downfield; following a pass from Dejan Ljubicic, Damian Downs, who previously had Köln’s only noteworthy chance, managed to slot the ball past Matej Kovar for an unexpected lead.

Things took a turn for the better for Köln shortly after the halftime break when another well-timed through ball penetrated Leverkusen’s high defensive line, allowing Linton Maina to surge towards the Leverkusen defense, doubling the visitors’ lead to 2-0. This second goal served as a much-needed wake-up call for Leverkusen, igniting their determination to stage a comeback. Following an impressive display of skill from Florian Wirtz, who maneuvered past several Köln players with an intricate pass, Patrik Schick found the net, pulling one back for Leverkusen. The game was now poised to become intensely competitive.

The home side relentlessly pursued the equalizer but faced challenges in breaking through Köln’s well-organized defense. However, keen observers of the Bundesliga recognized that despite Leverkusen’s struggles, they were likely to find a way to level the score. With eight minutes added to the clock, anticipation filled the stadium. In the dramatic 96th minute, Jeremie Frimpong delivered a pinpoint cross, skillfully met by Schick, who headed in the equalizer, rescuing Leverkusen from the brink of DFB Pokal elimination. The match extended into extra time.

During the extra 30 minutes, Leverkusen asserted their dominance, as was expected given their superior squad depth. With Köln visibly tiring, it was only a matter of time before Leverkusen took the lead. Just two minutes into extra time, Victor Boniface redirected a Grimaldo cross into the net, putting Die Werkself ahead at 3-2. However, Köln’s spirits reignited in the second half of extra time when January signing Imad Rondic thought he had equalized with a goal in the 111th minute, only for it to be disallowed due to offside. Leverkusen managed to hold onto their slim lead, narrowly securing their spot in the DFB Pokal final.

Die Werkself demonstrated the resilience that characterized their previous season, showcasing their ability to come from behind against formidable opponents. However, it must be noted that Leverkusen’s defense appeared shaky throughout the match, raising concerns about their solidity, especially after taking a 3-2 lead. With a challenging away fixture against Wolfsburg looming, Leverkusen must address these defensive vulnerabilities to avoid a potential upset this weekend. On the flip side, Köln exhibited their capability to compete effectively, suggesting they could hold their own if they achieve promotion back to the Bundesliga this season.

Player Ratings for Bayer Leverkusen:

Matej Kovar (5), Nordi Mukiele (5), Jonathan Tah (5), Edmond Tapsoba (4), Jeremie Frimpong (6), Granit Xhaka (5), Exequiel Palacios (5), Alejandro Grimaldo (6), Emiliano Buendia (5), Florian Wirtz (6), Patrik Schick (7)

Substitutes: Piero Hincapié (5), Nathan Tella (5), Victor Boniface (6), Aleix Garcia (5), Mario Hermoso (-)

Player Ratings for 1.FC Köln:

Marvin Schwäbe (5), Timo Hübers (6), Joe Schmied (6), Dominque Heintz (6), Jan Thielmann (6), Eric Martel (6), Dejan Ljubicic (6), Max Finkgräfe (6), Denis Huseinbasic (6), Damion Downs (7), Linton Maina (7)

Substitutes: Steffen Tigges (5), Leart Paqarada (5), Mathias Oelsen (5), Imad Rondic (5), Jusuf Gazibegovic (5)

GGFN Man of the Match: Patrik Schick (7)

Patrik Schick’s performance was pivotal in this match, securing two crucial goals that helped Leverkusen avoid elimination at a critical moment. When his team needed him most, both he and Florian Wirtz rose to the occasion, demonstrating their importance to the squad. Schick’s first goal showcased his striking ability, finding the net from a challenging angle. His second goal was a testament to his positioning and poise, as he was in the right place at the right moment to head home the equalizer.

Additionally, a special mention goes to Damion Downs, who played a vital role in Köln’s initial 2-0 lead. On another day, his contributions might have earned him the GGFN Man of the Match award, but ultimately, it was Leverkusen’s day as they continued their quest in the DFB Pokal.

GGFN | Jack Meenan

* Harry Kane previously received accolades for a similar feat, making Schick’s first goal a contender for ‘Sportschau Goal of the Year 2025’