DFB-Pokal Finalists 1998
Bayer Leverkusen's DFB-Pokal history: two final appearances, no titles.
The DFB-Pokal is a German knockout football cup competition held annually by the German Football Association (DFB). It is considered the second-most important club title in German football after the Bundesliga championship.
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- Christoph Daum (Manager)
Lore & Background
Bayer Leverkusen have never won the DFB-Pokal. Their appearance in the 1998 final was their second DFB-Pokal final appearance. The 1993 final was lost to Werder Bremen 1–0 with no replay.
In Their Own Story
The Berlin air is thick with tension as the referee blows the whistle on extra time. The score stands at 2-2, and the fate of the DFB-Pokal rests on the penalty spot. Stefan Kuntz steps up, his face a mask of concentration, the roar of the Olympiastadion fading into a muffled hum. He strikes true, but the Bayern goalkeeper dives right, parrying the ball away. The silence that follows is deafening before the next Leverkusen player steps forward, carrying the weight of a city's hope on their shoulders.
Reader's Guide
The DFB-Pokal begins with a round of 64 teams, including all clubs from the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga along with the top four teams from the 3. Liga. The winner qualifies for the DFL-Supercup and the UEFA Europa League unless the winner already qualifies for the UEFA Champions League in the Bundesliga.
Did You Know?
- Bayern Munich have won a record 21 DFB-Pokal titles.
- Fortuna Düsseldorf hold the record for most consecutive tournament game wins (18) between 1978 and 1981.
- The DFB-Pokal was originally called the Tschammer-Pokal, founded in 1935.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Bayer Leverkusen face in the 1998 DFB-Pokal Final?
Leverkusen played against their fierce rivals Bayern Munich at the Olympiastadion in Berlin during the 1997–98 season. This clash marked a historic meeting between two of Germany's top clubs, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
How did the 1998 DFB-Pokal Final end?
The match finished as a tense 2-2 draw after regular time, forcing the teams into a penalty shootout. Bayern Munich ultimately prevailed with a 5-4 score on penalties, denying Leverkusen the trophy.
Why is this final considered pivotal in Leverkusen's history?
This defeat established the club's infamous 'Almost' legacy as the first of many heartbreaking near-misses for the 'Wunder von Leverkusen'. It proved they could compete with elite giants like Bayern, even if they fell just short of victory.
Who was managing Bayer Leverkusen during this 1998 final?
The team was led by manager Ralf Rangnick, who guided them to their first-ever cup final appearance. His tactical approach pushed Bayern Munich to the limit, showcasing the squad's growing potential under his direction.
Did Xabi Alonso play in the 1998 DFB-Pokal Final?
No, Xabi Alonso was not part of the Leverkusen squad during this match as he had not yet joined the club. His future contributions would come years later, long after this specific chapter of heartbreak had concluded.
More in Honours, Records & The 'Almost' Legacy
Elsewhere in the Bayer Leverkusen universe
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