Borussia Dortmund advanced to the last-16 of the DFB-Pokal after a thrilling 4-2 shoot-out win over Eintracht Frankfurt, with Gregor Kobel’s heroics proving decisive.

Borussia Dortmund emerged victorious in a thrilling DFB-Pokal tie against Eintracht Frankfurt, with the Swiss shot-stopper Gregor Kobel playing hero in the shoot-out. The two Bundesliga giants failed to be separated after 120 minutes of football, with the match ending 1-1.

Frankfurt took an early lead through Ansgar Knauff’s seventh-minute strike, with the winger combining with ex-Dortmund midfielder Mario Götze. The Hessen club maintained their intensity, with Farès Chaïbi and Ritsu Dōan testing Kobel, but Dortmund’s defense held firm.

Dortmund equalized just after the half-hour mark, with Julian Ryerson feeding Julian Brandt, who tapped home from close range. The visitors’ attacking shape improved, with Karim Adeyemi and Jobe Bellingham threatening, but Frankfurt’s goalkeeper Zetterer was equal to the task.

The match remained intense, with both teams creating chances, but the deadlock wasn’t broken, leading to extra time. Frankfurt’s Chaïbi and Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy had opportunities, but the scores remained level, setting up a shoot-out.

In the shoot-out, Dortmund’s nerves held firm, with Dōan’s miss from Frankfurt’s second spot-kick proving crucial. Kobel then repelled Chaïbi’s effort, securing a massive triumph for Dortmund.

Kobel’s heroics were instrumental in Dortmund’s win, with the Swiss shot-stopper making crucial saves throughout the match.

Frankfurt’s campaign ended in disappointment, with the Hessen club’s attacking firepower unable to break down Dortmund’s defense. Dortmund, on the other hand, will look to build on their momentum in the competition.