DFB-Pokal Title 1981

Lore & Background

Eintracht Frankfurt's victory in the 1981 DFB-Pokal marked their second cup title. The final was held at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, which has hosted the final every season since 1985, though the 1981 final was before that policy was fully established. Fortuna Düsseldorf hold the record for most consecutive tournament game wins (18) between 1978 and 1981, winning the cup in 1979 and 1980, meaning Eintracht Frankfurt's 1981 win ended Düsseldorf's streak.

In Their Own Story

The floodlights hummed over the Olympiastadion as the Berlin night cooled. In the tunnel, the air smelled of cut grass and anticipation. Bernd Hölzenbein tightened his boots, looking at Cha Bum-kun across from him. No words were needed; they knew what was required. When the whistle blew, it wasn't just a match; it was a statement to Germany that Frankfurt belonged among the elite.

Reader's Guide

The DFB-Pokal is a knockout competition. In 1981, the tournament involved 64 teams, including all clubs from the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, along with the top four teams from the 3. Liga and winners of regional association cups. The final was a single match; if scores were level after 90 minutes, extra time would be played, followed by a penalty shootout if needed.

Did You Know?

• Eintracht Frankfurt's 1981 cup win was their second DFB-Pokal title.
• The 1981 final was played on May 2, not June 6.
• Fortuna Düsseldorf had won the cup in 1979 and 1980 before Frankfurt's victory.