Augsburg survive Grossaspach scare in 4-2 DFB Pokal win

FC Augsburg advanced in the DFB Pokal after a hard-fought 4-2 victory over SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach on 28 October 2026, but the Bundesliga side were forced to work far harder than the scoreline suggests. The lower-tier hosts twice fought back to level the tie, turning what looked like a routine cup assignment into a tense, open contest before Augsburg’s superior quality told in the closing stages.

The match had the classic cup ingredients: an early shock, a favourite under pressure and a late surge from the stronger side. Grossaspach played with energy and belief, while Augsburg’s attacking threat eventually made the difference in a game that remained competitive deep into the second half.

Match overview

Grossaspach started aggressively and were rewarded for their intent when they took a surprise lead from a set piece. Augsburg responded with longer spells of possession, moving the ball quickly through midfield and forcing the hosts deeper. The equaliser arrived before half-time, and a second goal shortly before the break put Augsburg ahead at the interval.

Grossaspach refused to fold. Early in the second half they found another equaliser, lifting the home crowd and exposing some nervous moments in the Augsburg defence. The favourites restored their lead in the final quarter of the match and then sealed the result late on as Grossaspach pushed forward in search of another comeback.

Key moments

• 12th minute: Grossaspach take a shock lead from a well-worked corner, sparking loud celebrations and giving Augsburg an early warning.
• 28th minute: Augsburg equalise after sustained pressure, finishing calmly from close range.
• 41st minute: The visitors move ahead for the first time with a low strike from the edge of the area.
• 58th minute: Grossaspach equalise at 2-2, capitalising on a quick counterattack and a defensive lapse.
• 74th minute: Augsburg retake the lead with a header from another dangerous delivery.
• 89th minute: A late breakaway goal makes it 4-2 and finally settles the tie.

Tactical story

Grossaspach’s plan was clear: press high when possible, defend in a compact block and make the most of set pieces. It worked for long spells, especially in the first half and immediately after the restart. Their willingness to attack in transition created genuine discomfort for an Augsburg side that often left space behind its advanced full-backs.

Augsburg controlled more of the ball but were not always convincing defensively. Their best periods came when they moved the ball wide quickly and attacked the box with numbers. The introduction of fresh legs in the second half helped them raise the tempo, and their late goals reflected a more patient approach against a tiring opponent.

Standout players

Augsburg’s attacking players carried the decisive edge, with their link-up play and movement in the final third proving too much to contain for the full 90 minutes. The midfield also grew into the game after a shaky start, winning more second balls and preventing Grossaspach from launching as many counters.

For Grossaspach, the goalkeeper and central defenders produced a brave display under heavy pressure, while the captain’s leadership kept the side organised through difficult spells. The hosts’ energy and set-piece threat made them more than just a footnote in the tie.

What it means

Augsburg move into the next round of the DFB Pokal, but the performance will give the coaching staff plenty to review. Cup ties are ultimately about survival, and Augsburg found a way to win after being tested far more than expected. For Grossaspach, the defeat will hurt, but their two-goal display against top-flight opposition underlined the club’s fighting spirit and the special atmosphere of the DFB Pokal.