Tella returns, Boniface fires blank as German division 3 side knocks cup holders out of DFB-Pokal

Defending champions Bayer Leverkusen suffered a shocking DFB-Pokal exit as third-division side Arminia Bielefeld pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory at the SchücoArena, Soccernet.ng reports.

Xabi Alonso’s men were overwhelming favourites to reach the final once again, but their dream of retaining the trophy ended in disappointment against a determined Bielefeld side.

Leverkusen took the lead in the 17th minute through an unmarked Jonathan Tah, who tapped in from close range to silence the home fans.

However, their advantage lasted just three minutes before Marius Wörl capitalised on some slack defending to equalise for the hosts.

The momentum swung firmly in Bielefeld’s favour, and Maximilian Großer’s well-taken strike in first-half stoppage time proved to be the decisive blow. Despite dominating possession after the break, Leverkusen struggled to break down their disciplined opponents.

Victor Boniface, fresh off an impressive display against Bochum, was introduced in the 52nd minute but failed to make an impact, while Nathan Tella made his return from injury with a brief 14-minute cameo, though his presence did little to alter the outcome.

Leverkusen had a golden opportunity to force extra time when Patrick Schick found himself unmarked in the box with nine minutes left. However, his header rattled the post, sealing his side’s fate.

For Arminia Bielefeld, this victory continues their fairy-tale run, having now eliminated four Bundesliga sides on their way to the final. Meanwhile, for Leverkusen, their focus will now shift back to their league campaign.