Hamburg, Germany – Bayern Munich advanced to the DFB-Pokal semifinals on Wednesday evening, defeating Hamburger SV’s women’s team 3-0 (1-0) in a quarterfinal clash at the Volksparkstadion. The Bundesliga champions proved too strong for the second-tier side, continuing their dominant form in cup competitions.
While the result was more comfortable than December’s 6-0 Bundesliga defeat for HSV, the power dynamic between the two teams remained largely unchanged. Bayern controlled possession and dictated the tempo from the opening whistle, breaking the deadlock early through Edna Imade in the 6th minute. Franziska Kett (66’) and Natalia Padilla-Bidas (88’) added goals in the second half to seal the victory.
HSV, making their first appearance in the DFB-Pokal quarterfinal, were largely confined to defensive duties and struggled to create meaningful attacking opportunities. The match highlighted the gap in quality between a Bundesliga powerhouse and a team still finding its footing in the top flight.
“We have to acknowledge Bayern’s superiority,” said HSV goalkeeper Lea Paulick after the match, as reported by NDR. “But we fought hard for a long time. We defended well, and that’s something One can build on.”
Early Bayern Dominance Sets the Tone
HSV’s plan to frustrate Bayern was quickly undone. The opening goal arrived in the 6th minute following a breakdown in communication within the HSV defense. A cross from German national team captain Giulia Gwinn from the right wing was met by a slight touch from Annaleen Böhler, causing the ball to evade goalkeeper Lea Paulick and allowing Imade to head into an empty net.
The defensive issues continued for HSV, with Gwinn causing problems again in the 30th minute. Another cross from the left wing created a moment of panic, but Gwinn’s shot sailed over the bar. Despite their dominance, Bayern struggled to create clear-cut chances beyond a header from Pernille Harder in the 40th minute. HSV managed a single attempt on goal in the first half, a shot from Maria Mikolajova in the 38th minute.
Kett Extends Bayern’s Lead
Any hopes of a second-half comeback for HSV were dashed in the 66th minute. Bayern executed a well-worked attack, culminating in a stunning through ball from Arianna Caruso to Franziska Kett. Kett skillfully rounded Paulick and slotted the ball home to make it 2-0.
The goal highlighted Bayern’s clinical finishing and tactical superiority. HSV continued to struggle in possession and were unable to relieve the pressure from the visitors.
Padilla-Bidas Completes the Victory
Bayern continued to press for goals, and their efforts were rewarded in the 88th minute. Natalia Padilla-Bidas scored the third goal, finishing off a creative play involving Linda Dallmann. The goal effectively ended any lingering hopes of a late rally from HSV.
For Liese Brancao, the HSV manager, it was the first cup defeat of her managerial career, having previously won the Austrian Cup six times in a row with St. Pölten. Despite the loss, Brancao emphasized the importance of focusing on the Bundesliga and the fight for survival.
Focus Shifts to Bundesliga Survival
With the DFB-Pokal run over, HSV’s immediate attention turns to their Bundesliga campaign and the crucial battle to avoid relegation. They face a difficult test on Sunday against bottom-of-the-table FC Carl Zeiss Jena at 14:00 CET (12:00 UTC), a match that could have significant implications for their league standing. The game will be broadcast live on NDR Livecenter.
The defeat underscores the challenges facing HSV as they navigate their first season in the Bundesliga. While they showed moments of resilience against a top team like Bayern Munich, consistency and improved attacking output will be crucial if they are to secure their place in the league next season.
The result likewise highlights Bayern Munich’s continued dominance in German women’s football. They remain strong contenders for both the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal crown.
