Hertha Berlin has advanced to the second round of the German DFB-Pokal after a penalty shootout victory. The team beat 1. FC Saarbrücken 5-3 on penalties, securing a bonus payment of 423,772 euros. Goalkeeper Marius Gersbeck saved two spot-kicks, while Josip Brekalo, Pascal Gechter, Fabian Schuler and Haris Sessa all converted their attempts.
The successful preparation was no accident. According to sporting director Benjamin Weber, the coaching team, especially goalkeeper coach Andreas Menger, did a huge job. Menger spoke at length with Gersbeck before the decisive moment, briefing him on the opposition takers. Intensive work on penalty situations had already taken place during the pre-season training camp. Head coach Stefan Leitl had determined the takers early to clearly assign responsibility. Oluwaseun Adewumi would have been the fifth taker but was not needed.
Marius Gersbeck was the hero of the day. The 26-year-old, who spent three years as number two behind Tjark Ernst, not only made two big saves during the match but later stopped penalties from Luca Pick and Tim Brünker. "He's had a long time as number two. So he absolutely deserves huge praise and congratulations!" said Benjamin Weber about the keeper. Gersbeck himself is enjoying his new role. "It's simply fun to be on the pitch. It's a special feeling, of course," he explained. His dream is to one day play in a final at the home Olympiastadion.
Progressing to the next round is an important financial and sporting success. The bonus of over 423,000 euros benefits the club's budget. Also, the win builds confidence after last season's disappointing cup exit, when Hertha lost on penalties to SC Freiburg in the quarter-finals. The current squad has demonstrated mental strength with this result. The next challenge is already waiting: in the 2. Bundesliga, an away match at FC St. Pauli is coming up this weekend. The team currently sits in fourth place, according to the standings.
The dream of a final at the Olympiastadion is alive. The draw for the second round takes place this coming weekend. Hertha could face any opponent, from regional league sides to Bundesliga clubs. The intensive preparation for penalty situations will also be important for future matches. The team has proven it can perform under pressure. More details on the squad composition can be found on the squad page. The focus now shifts to the league before the cup resumes in October.
