Bayer Leverkusen Suffer Shock DFB-Pokal Exit to Fourth-Tier SV Elversberg

Bundesliga Giants Stunned by Underdogs

In a stunning upset, Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen crashed out of the DFB-Pokal in the second round, losing 4-3 on penalties to fourth-tier SV Elversberg.

The match was a tale of two halves, with Leverkusen dominating the first half but failing to capitalize on their chances. Elversberg, meanwhile, grew into the game and took the lead through Kevin Koffi in the 52nd minute.

Second-Half Fightback

Leverkusen responded well to the setback and equalized through Sardar Azmoun just seven minutes later. However, Elversberg refused to be overawed and regained the lead through Jannik Rochelt in the 74th minute.

With time running out, Leverkusen threw everything forward and were rewarded with a second equalizer from Azmoun in the 88th minute. The match went to penalties, and Elversberg held their nerve to secure a famous victory.

Missed Opportunities Prove Costly

Leverkusen will rue their missed opportunities in the first half, with Patrik Schick and Moussa Diaby both spurning excellent chances. Their failure to convert their dominance into goals ultimately proved costly.

For Elversberg, this victory is the biggest in their history. The fourth-tier side will now face Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich in the third round, with the match set to be played on January 31.