Sonnenhof Grossaspach vs Bayer Leverkusen

On a stormy Friday evening, August 15, 2025, the DFB-Pokal first-round tie between Sonnenhof Großaspach and Bayer Leverkusen at the WIRmachenDRUCK Arena turned into an unforgettable spectacle. Heavy rain and a sudden hailstorm forced the match to be suspended for around 45 minutes midway through the first half, with sheets of ice briefly covering the pitch. When play eventually resumed, the visitors wasted little time asserting control, and Patrik Schick struck in the 32nd minute to break the deadlock, calming Leverkusen nerves after a weather-induced disruption that could have rattled their rhythm.

Despite playing in Germany’s fourth tier, Sonnenhof Großaspach showed admirable resilience in the opening stages, pressing high when possible and defending with compact discipline. Yet their uphill battle became even steeper in the 66th minute when Volkan Çeliktaş received his second yellow card and was sent off, reducing the hosts to ten men. That dismissal shifted the momentum fully in Leverkusen’s favor, as the Bundesliga side began to move the ball with greater freedom and exploit the extra space.

Arthur made the breakthrough that killed off any lingering hopes for the underdogs, firing home in the 74th minute after a well-worked move. Just ten minutes later, debutant Christian Kofane marked his first appearance with a confident strike, scoring only six minutes after coming off the bench. His goal was celebrated as much for its personal significance as for its role in cementing Leverkusen’s dominance, a moment that will surely boost his confidence heading into the season.

The closing minutes saw Bayer Leverkusen put the final stamp on their performance. In the 87th minute, Alejandro Grimaldo calmly slotted home from the penalty spot after a foul inside the box, making it 4–0. By that point, the result was beyond doubt, but the visitors continued to showcase the attacking efficiency expected under new coach Erik ten Hag. The victory ensured their safe passage into the next round of the cup, with the added satisfaction of having navigated both an unpredictable opponent and chaotic weather conditions.

This match will be remembered less for its competitive balance and more for its unusual storyline. From a hailstorm delay to a debut goal and a composed penalty finish, the evening delivered drama in multiple forms. Leverkusen’s quality was never in question, but Sonnenhof Großaspach’s spirited resistance—especially before the red card—deserved credit. In the end, the Bundesliga giants left Aspach with a statement win, having turned a disrupted, icy night into a confident and comprehensive 4–0 triumph.

Watch and Download Sonnenhof Grossaspach vs Bayer Leverkusen full match replay and highlights, At Friday, August 15, 2025. The match played at WIRmachenDRUCK Arena in DFB Pokal, Germany.

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