The match showcased both teams' resilience, with Dortmund ultimately prevailing in a tense shootout.
The game began with a strong start for Dortmund, but it was Frankfurt who struck first. In the 7th minute, Mario Gotze delivered a perfectly timed pass to Ansgar Knauff, who slotted the ball past Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Despite falling behind, Dortmund maintained composure, but struggled to penetrate a disciplined Frankfurt defense.
Dortmund found their equalizer just three minutes into the second half when Julian Brandt tapped in a cross from Julian Ryerson. The match intensified, with Dortmund's Ritsu Dōan hitting the crossbar and both Can Uzun and Fabio Silva testing the Frankfurt goalkeeper with late efforts.
After a tightly contested 90 minutes, the match went into extra time. Frankfurt nearly took the lead again when Jonathan Burkardt scored in the 115th minute, only for the goal to be ruled offside. With the score locked at 1-1, the match proceeded to penalties.
All four Dortmund players-Fabio Silva, Niklas Sule, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Felix Nmecha - successfully converted their penalties. In contrast, Frankfurt's Doan blasted his attempt over the bar, and Farès Chaïbi saw his shot saved by Kobel, sealing Dortmund's victory.
Victor Boniface reportedly wants to leave Bayer Leverkusen in January 2027 as he looks to revive his career after a difficult period marked by injuries, fitness problems and limited first-team opportunities.
Robert Lewandowski has backed Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or while identifying Bayern Munich attackers Michael Olise and Harry Kane as potential challengers for football's most prestigious individual award.
Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has backed Lennart Karl to rediscover his best form, insisting he is not worried about the teenager's recent struggles.
Bournemouth continued their perfect start to the Europa League league phase with a 3-0 victory over AC Milan, while Crystal Palace drew 2-2 with Besiktas in Istanbul and Juventus were held by Rennes by the same scoreline on Thursday.
