Borussia Dortmund edged SV Werder Bremen 3-2 in a pulsating DFB Pokal knockout tie, with a late goal deciding a five-goal contest at Signal Iduna Park.

Match overview

Borussia Dortmund and SV Werder Bremen produced a classic cup encounter in the DFB Pokal, with Dortmund eventually coming through 3-2 after a dramatic second half. The hosts started strongly, built a two-goal advantage, and looked in control, but Werder Bremen responded with character and levelled the match before Dortmund found a late winner. The knockout format added tension to every moment, and the crowd was treated to an absorbing cup tie.

Dortmund’s attacking quality was evident in the opening period, with quick combinations and purposeful runs causing problems for Bremen’s back line. However, Werder showed why cup ties can never be taken for granted, fighting their way back into the game and forcing Dortmund to dig deep in the final stages. The result sends Dortmund into the next round, but only after a serious scare.

Key moments

• 18th minute: Dortmund took the lead after a sharp move down the right. The cutback was converted first-time from close range to make it 1-0.
• 41st minute: Dortmund doubled their advantage with a well-placed finish from the edge of the box, giving the goalkeeper little chance.
• 55th minute: Werder Bremen pulled one back after a sustained spell of pressure, finishing off a low cross at the near post.
• 76th minute: Bremen equalised with a powerful header from a corner, silencing the home crowd and setting up a tense finale.
• 88th minute: Dortmund found the winner with a late attacking move, as a low shot found the corner to make it 3-2.
• 90+3rd minute: Bremen pushed forward for one last chance, but Dortmund defended the final ball to secure progression.

Tactical story

Dortmund controlled much of the first half by pressing Bremen’s build-up and forcing errors in midfield. Their wide players stretched the defence, and the central attackers found space between the lines. The two-goal lead was deserved, but it also gave Dortmund a sense of comfort that Bremen exploited after the break.

Werder Bremen adjusted in the second half, pressing higher and committing more bodies forward. Their response was impressive, with set-piece delivery and crosses causing problems for Dortmund’s defence. The equaliser shifted the momentum, but Dortmund’s quality in the final minutes proved decisive. It was a reminder that cup football rewards teams who keep pushing until the end, and Dortmund did just enough to survive.

Standout performers

Dortmund’s attacking unit showed pace, movement, and composure in the final third. The late match-winner demonstrated the value of staying calm under pressure, while the midfield’s energy helped Dortmund regain control after Bremen’s comeback. For Werder Bremen, the fightback was led by their wide players and set-piece threats, and their goalkeeper made several important saves to keep the tie alive.

What it means

The 3-2 win keeps Borussia Dortmund’s DFB Pokal hopes alive and sends them into the next round after a demanding test. SV Werder Bremen exit with credit for a brave second-half performance, but the result highlights how small margins decide knockout football. Dortmund will know they must tighten up defensively, yet the character shown in securing a late winner is exactly what successful cup runs are built on.