Phönix Lübeck vs SC Paderborn 07 - DFB Pokal

The DFB Pokal returns to the home ground on August 23, 2026, where Phönix Lübeck and SC Paderborn 07 will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. He experienced victory in his only Old Firm appearance as a Gers player, but Sunday will be his first taste of the fixture in the dugout.

A glance at the DFB Pokal table tells the story: Phönix Lübeck in 43rd and SC Paderborn 07 in 19th, with positions to defend and places to climb. Phönix Lübeck's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. SC Paderborn 07's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Phönix Lübeck will look to impose their style on home soil, while SC Paderborn 07 are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Speaking on his YouTube Ferdinand said: "If I’m Manchester United right now I say press the green button and buy him, take him, right now.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman P. Tietz, whose 4 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The Everton forward would suit Michael Carrick’s plans because he can carry the ball through pressure, create chances from wide areas and operate behind a striker.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. On balance, SC Paderborn 07 may just have enough to take all three points. A 1-2 away win would not be a shock. With positions in the DFB Pokal table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.