DFB-Pokal 2026 Semifinals Set: Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen and Stuttgart vs. Freiburg

The 2026 DFB-Pokal semifinals matchups have been officially drawn, setting the stage for intense battles ahead. According to ZDF, record champions Bayern Munich will travel to face Bayer Leverkusen, while defending champions VfB Stuttgart will host SC Freiburg in a regional Baden-Württemberg duel. The semifinals are scheduled for April 21 and 22, 2026, with the final slated for May 23, 2026, in Berlin.

Bayern Munich reached the semifinals after a hard-fought encounter against Union Berlin, advancing only in the closing moments of the game. This season, they aim to return to the final for the first time since defeating Leverkusen in 2020, underscoring the significance of their upcoming clash with the same opponents. Meanwhile, Stuttgart continues to defend their title, having won the cup in 2025.

The semifinal between Stuttgart and Freiburg rekindles a historical rivalry. As reported by Bild, the two teams last met in the DFB-Pokal semifinals during the 2012/2013 season, when Stuttgart prevailed 2:1. Freiburg, having secured their spot this year, is determined to turn the tables and advance further, motivated by the previous defeat that still resonates with their fans.

The draw, conducted by Olympic champion Max Langenhan on ZDF, confirms high stakes for both fixtures. Fans can anticipate competitive matches as these four teams vie for spots in the prestigious Berlin final. The exact times for the semifinals remain unconfirmed but are expected within the stated April dates.

In summary, the DFB-Pokal semifinals promise thrilling contests: the top-tier showdown of Bayern Munich against Bayer Leverkusen, and the heated Baden-Württemberg derby between Stuttgart and Freiburg, each carrying significant historical context and ambitions.