DFB-Pokal (German national football cup)

The DFB-Pokal is Germany's premier annual knockout football cup organized by the German Football Association. Open to professional and qualifying amateur clubs, it crowns a national cup champion and awards European qualification.

The DFB-Pokal is the principal annual cup competition in German football, organised by the German Football Association (DFB). Played alongside the league season, it uses a straight knockout format and brings together professional sides and qualifying regional clubs in a single-elimination tournament that culminates in a one-match final.

Format and structure

The competition traditionally begins with a large first round and progresses through successive knockout rounds — second round, round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final. Ties are decided by a single match; if scores are level after 90 minutes the game goes to extra time and, if needed, a penalty shoot-out. In early rounds the lower-ranked team usually enjoys home advantage, a rule that helps smaller clubs host top-flight opposition.

Participants and qualification

Clubs from the top professional divisions automatically qualify, while additional places are allocated to lower-division sides through league position and regional cup competitions. This mix of professional and amateur entrants creates opportunities for upsets and memorable "cup nights" when underdogs eliminate higher-ranked teams.

History and significance

The competition has roots before World War II: it was held from 1935 to 1943 under the name Tschammer-Pokal. After the war the modern DFB-Pokal was established and has since become a major national title. The final is traditionally staged at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, a fixture that attracts wide public and media interest. Winners not already qualified for UEFA competitions typically gain a place in European club tournaments, increasing the cup's importance.

Notable aspects

Single-match knockouts produce frequent surprises and give smaller clubs national exposure.
Several leading German clubs have multiple cup victories; one club holds the record for most wins.
The women's equivalent is organised separately as the DFB-Pokal Frauen.

For official regulations, historical records and current season information consult the organising body and competition pages: see the DFB and general competition resources for detailed schedules, qualification rules and past finals.