Match highlights:
Fans inside the sold-out MHP Arena were treated to a pulsating cup tie from the get-go. A sensational first-time volley from Angelo Stiller gave VfB the lead after just five minutes, and Ermedin Demirovic almost doubled the hosts’ lead four minutes later but was denied by Leipzig goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt after running onto Nick Woltemade’s pass.
Nübel outstanding
Leipzig gradually worked their way into the contest but couldn’t find a way past the brilliant Alexander Nübel, who denied Lois Openda twice in quick succession in the 15th and 17th minutes. The VfB goalkeeper also did well to prevent Xavi Simons’ deflected effort from nestling in the top corner shortly after the half-hour mark (31’) before thwarting Openda yet again four minutes later.
Woltemade doubles lead
There was no drop in intensity after the break, with both teams committing plenty of full-blooded challenges. It was 2-0 13 minutes into the second half, Woltemade linking up brilliantly with Demirovic before finishing coolly to double VfB’s advantage.
Leipzig made it 2-1 through Benjamin Sesko five minutes later and continued to create opportunities as the second half wore on, but Sebastian Hoeneß’s charges battled valiantly and restored their two-goal cushion through Jamie Leweling with 17 minutes remaining. Sesko struck the crossbar in the 87th minute, but there was no way back for the visitors as VfB celebrated a famous 3-1 victory.
VfB to face Arminia Bielefeld in final
VfB’s opponents in the DFB Cup final on 24 May will be third-tier side Arminia Bielefeld, who stunned Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 in the other last-four tie.
Goals:
5th minute: Sesko’s headed clearance is met by Stiller, who rifles an unstoppable volley into the net from 18 metres.
57th minute: Woltemade plays a beautiful one-two with Demirovic before guiding the ball into the bottom left corner.
62nd minute: Atakan Karazor’s headed clearance lands at the feet of Leipzig captain Willi Orban, who tees up the unmarked Sesko to reduce the arrears.
74th minute: Leipzig fail to clear a corner and Leweling prods the ball over the line from close range to complete the scoring.
