German Cup 2025-2026: Bayer Leverkusen-St. Pauli, the likely lineups
At 8:45 p.m., the spotlight turns on the BayArena for the German Cup quarterfinal between Bayer Leverkusen and St. Pauli, with a coveted spot in the semifinals at stake. The Aspirins, galvanized by the important narrow victory against Borussia Dortmund in the previous round, come into the match as favorites and determined to turn around a season that, at the moment, sees them occupy sixth position in the league. On the other side, there’s a St. Pauli in the midst of a crisis, penultimate in the Bundesliga and the victim of fluctuating results, which, however, will have nothing to lose.
The team will have nothing to lose.
Leverkusen’s momentum is excellent, as evidenced by their three consecutive victories, including a clear 3-0 win against Villarreal in the Champions League. On the other hand, the situation is different for St. Pauli, which is going through a complicated period; despite scoring four goals in the last three games, it has not won an official match since mid-December. Recent history also smiles on the hosts, who won 2-1 in September thanks to a decisive play by Poku. For the guests, the field factor and the technical gap make the goal extremely difficult, but the cup represents the’only chance to redeem a disappointing season so far.
Bayer Leverkusen does not seem willing to discount, presenting a top-level lineup. Between the posts will be Blaswich, protected by a three-man defense with Andrich, Quansah and Bade. On the flanks, dynamism and energy will be provided by Vazquez and Grimaldo, while the direction of the midfield will be in the hands of the Fernandez-Aleix Garcia duo. Up front, Schick will serve as the offensive reference, supported by Poku and likely Tillman (who will replace the injured Maza’s).
On the other hand, St. Pauli may prefer a large turnover, focusing more on the fight for salvation in the league. Voll will be deployed between the posts, supported by a defensive line consisting of Wahl, Robatsch and Mets. In midfield, Stevens and Oppie will man the outside lanes, while Fujita, Rasmussen and Irvine will handle the central area. In attack, room for the Kaars-Jones pair.
Bayer Leverkusen (3-4-2-1): Blaswich; Quansah, Andrich, Bade; Vazquez, Fernandez, Garcia, Grimaldo; Tillman, Poku; Schick. Coach: Hjulmand
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St. Pauli (3-5-2): Voll; Wahl, Robatsch, Mets; Stevens, Fujita, Rasmussen, Irvine, Oppie; Kaars, Jones. Coach: Blessin
