How SV Werder Bremen Survived a DFB-Pokal Scare Against SC Paderborn 07

Bremen's DFB-Pokal Journey

SV Werder Bremen faced a stern test in the DFB-Pokal, the German Football Association's premier cup competition, as they traveled to face third-tier side SC Paderborn 07. Despite playing away from home, Bremen were strong favorites, but Paderborn had other ideas.

Paderborn started the match brightly and took the lead through a superb free-kick from Florent Muslija. Bremen struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, but they eventually found their rhythm after the break. Milot Rashica equalized with a composed finish in the 55th minute and Bremen took the lead just six minutes later when Niclas Füllkrug converted a penalty.

Paderborn refused to give up and continued to threaten Bremen's goal. However, Bremen held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory, booking their place in the second round of the DFB-Pokal.

Ole Werner's Tactical Masterclass

Bremen's new head coach, Ole Werner, deserves credit for his tactical approach in this match. Werner set his team up in a 3-5-2 formation, with wing-backs Anthony Jung and Mitchell Weiser providing width and attacking threat. The central defenders, Ömer Toprak, Marco Friedl, and Christian Groß, were solid and composed throughout the match.

In midfield, Leonardo Bittencourt dictated the tempo of the game with his intelligent passing and movement. Rashica and Füllkrug were dangerous in attack, with Rashica's pace causing Paderborn problems and Füllkrug's physical presence proving too much for the Paderborn defense.

Paderborn's Resilience

SC Paderborn may play in the third tier of German football, but they showed great resilience and determination against Bremen. Paderborn started the match strongly and took a deserved lead through Muslija's free-kick.

Paderborn were organized and compact in defense, and they made it difficult for Bremen to create chances. Even after Bremen took the lead, Paderborn continued to push for an equalizer and they had several chances to level the score in the closing stages of the match.

Conclusion

Bremen's victory over Paderborn was a hard-fought and well-deserved one. Werner's tactical approach was spot on, and his players executed his game plan perfectly. Paderborn deserve credit for their resilience and determination, but Bremen were ultimately the more clinical team on the day.