2020 DFB-Pokal Final

Lore & Background

The final was originally scheduled for 23 May 2020 but was postponed on 24 April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On 11 May 2020, the DFB Executive Committee approved a resumption, with the final scheduled for 4 July, subject to political approval. The match was played behind closed doors without any spectators. Due to the postponement, it was the first DFB-Pokal final to take place after June since 1974.

In Their Own Story

Marco Reus stepped up to the penalty spot, the silence amplifying the rhythmic thud of his heart against his ribs. He struck the ball, the net rippled, and for a fleeting second, he imagined the roar that should have followed. Around him, Jadon Sancho danced past defenders as if they were statues, his movements a silent prayer to the gods of football. The scoreboard read 4-1, a number that felt like a victory in one breath and a sigh in the next. They had conquered Germany's cup, but the league trophy sat just out of reach, a silver ghost haunting the celebrations.

Reader's Guide

The DFB-Pokal began with 64 teams in a single-elimination knockout cup competition. There were a total of five rounds leading up to the final. Teams were drawn against each other, and the winner after 90 minutes would advance. If still tied, 30 minutes of extra time was played. If the score was still level, a penalty shoot-out was used to determine the winner.

Did You Know?

• Bayern Munich completed their 13th domestic double with the win.
• The final was played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Bayer Leverkusen appeared in their first DFB-Pokal final since 2009.
• Bayern Munich were the title holders and record-winners of the competition.