Hammer duel in the DFB Cup: HSV meets Holstein Kiel!
In the DFB Cup, Holstein Kiel will face Hamburger SV in the round of 16. The games will take place on December 2nd and 3rd, 2025.

Hammer duel in the DFB Cup: HSV meets Holstein Kiel!
In the exciting world of the DFB Cup, there is the latest news from the draw for the round of 16, which took place last Sunday at the German Football Museum in Dortmund. Exciting duels were promised that are already captivating the fans. Hamburger SV will face Holstein Kiel, while FC St. Pauli will face Borussia Mönchengladbach. Both games promise fighting spirit and thrills, as the games are scheduled for December 2nd and 3rd, 2025, exact kick-off times are still to be determined. NDR
It cannot be overlooked: Holstein Kiel put in an impressive performance in the second round and knocked Bundesliga club VfL Wolfsburg out of the competition 1-0. In a game that took place in front of just 10,000 spectators, Alexander Bernhardsson set the decisive tone with a penalty kick in the 42nd minute. Once again Kiel proved that they are good for surprises, especially in this cup competition. After taking the early lead, they acted courageously and did not allow Wolfsburg, who were playing outnumbered, to have a chance. Eurosport
A look ahead
For Hamburg, who beat 1. FC Heidenheim 1-0 in the second round, it is now time to take the next step in the cup. Robert Glatzel scored the winning goal for HSV in the 83rd minute after a controversial penalty. Heidenheim, currently caught in the relegation battle of the Bundesliga, was visibly weakened and could not withstand the pressure. This just shows how crucial the teams' form curves are in this competition. NDR
Holstein Kiel can also report positive things, as coach Marcel Rapp is optimistic about the game against HSV. With direct duels between the two clubs, which already saw a 1-0 win for Kiel in the Volksparkstadion last season, the memories of past successes remain fresh. From the round of 16 onwards, the video referee (VAR) will also be used - an aspect that could further enliven the games. NDR
Rewards and perspectives
The financial aspect of the DFB Cup also remains exciting. The bonuses for this round have been increased slightly and now amount to 1,483,202 euros for the round of 16. The cup winner can earn up to 4.32 million euros and collect a total of around eleven million euros in bonuses - a lucrative business that is of considerable interest to the club's management. NDR
The ongoing tension in the DFB Cup - the second division is heavily involved and that creates an exceptional competitive spirit. It remains to be seen whether Hamburger SV or Holstein Kiel will win. The next round of the cup promises a lot of excitement. And for fans it is an opportunity to support their teams and create unforgettable football moments. Statista