Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg - DFB Pokal

The DFB Pokal returns to the home ground on August 23, 2026, where Fortuna Düsseldorf and SC Freiburg will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

In the DFB Pokal table, Fortuna Düsseldorf currently occupy 53rd and SC Freiburg sit 8th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. Fortuna Düsseldorf will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Manchester City are nearing an agreement with Marseille for an experienced goalkeeper as they continue reshaping the position behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Fortuna Düsseldorf favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while SC Freiburg are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. His all-action approach did not just suit the demands of Luis Enrique, it appeared to have a transformative effect on those around him, setting new standards in the forward line.

The fixture boasts genuine star quality. With P. Tietz topping the DFB Pokal scoring charts at 4 goals, the stage is set for the kind of individual brilliance that can swing a contest. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Youri Tielemans praised the "humble" and "hard-working" Rashford and said he hoped to see the forward match his impact for Aston Villa at Man United now he has returned to the fold at his boyhood club.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. The numbers tilt towards SC Freiburg, and a 1-2 away win looks the more probable outcome. With positions in the DFB Pokal table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.