Key Takeaways:
- Holstein Kiel progressed to the German Cup round of 16 after defeating Bundesliga side Wolfsburg 1:0 away from home in the round of 32
- Alexander Bernhardsson scored the decisive penalty in the 42nd minute following a foul by Vini Souza
- Wolfsburg missed several late chances despite playing with ten men, including efforts by Patrick Wimmer and Maximilian Arnold in stoppage time
Match Overview
Holstein Kiel, from the second division, produced a major shock in the German Cup by defeating top-flight Wolfsburg 1:0 on their own ground in the round of 32. This result sees Kiel move into the tournament’s round of 16 and leaves Wolfsburg with another early Cup exit.
Eine. Runde. Weiter!! 🙂↕️
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90. | 0:1 | #WOBKSV #KielAhoi #DFBPokal
Werbung: Präsentiert von Casino Kiel. pic.twitter.com/6s0voH4xyo— Holstein Kiel (@Holstein_Kiel) October 28, 2025
Crucial Moments
The contest’s only goal arrived in the 42nd minute. Alexander Bernhardsson successfully converted a penalty after Vini Souza was penalised for a foul inside the area. This decisive moment came shortly after the home side were reduced to ten men, as Jenson Seelt was shown a second yellow card, resulting in a red.
| Minute | Event | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42 | Penalty Goal | Alexander Bernhardsson | Holstein Kiel |
| 36 | Second Yellow Card – Red | Jenson Seelt | Wolfsburg |
| Stoppage Time | Missed Chance | Patrick Wimmer | Wolfsburg |
| Stoppage Time | Free-kick Just Wide | Maximilian Arnold | Wolfsburg |
Late Drama and Defensive Resilience
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Wolfsburg pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages. Patrick Wimmer had a significant opportunity in stoppage time but was unable to convert. Maximilian Arnold also struck a powerful free-kick that narrowly missed the target by centimetres. Holstein Kiel, however, held firm under pressure and secured one of their most notable wins in recent years to advance.
Implications for Both Sides
The defeat represents another setback for Wolfsburg in the Cup, as they exited the competition at an early stage yet again despite exerting late dominance and enjoying multiple chances to level the match. In contrast, Holstein Kiel’s disciplined performance and clinical approach allowed them to achieve a memorable result and book their place in the next round.
