Fortuna Düsseldorf
SC Freiburg
>Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg Predictions, Picks & Odds – 23/08/2026
DFB Pokal · 1st RoundFortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg – Best bets of the match
Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg Preview
Fortuna Düsseldorf arrive at this DFB Pokal first-round tie in genuine disarray. Relegated to the 3. Liga at the end of last season, the club is engulfed by internal power struggles and fan unrest, with calls for coach Alexander Ende's dismissal after just two fixtures. Questionable selection decisions have compounded the chaos, and a settled defensive unit has yet to materialise. For a side that lost nine of their last twelve matches, this cup draw offers little respite.
SC Freiburg's preparation has not been entirely smooth either. Julian Schuster has overseen substantial squad turnover, particularly in midfield, while uncertainty around first-choice goalkeeper Noah Atubolu led to the arrival of Mio Backhaus. Recent form reads poorly, with one win from their last five outings. Still, Freiburg comfortably dispatched Düsseldorf 3-1 in this exact fixture last October, and the gulf in quality between a Bundesliga outfit and a third-tier side should prove telling once more.
Freiburg's poor recent league form, with just one win from five outings, might tempt some to back the hosts. Yet context matters: Julian Schuster's side remain a Bundesliga outfit facing a club freshly relegated to the 3. Liga, and that quality gap is substantial. The away win at 1.40 reflects an implied probability around 67%, which looks fair given the chasm between the two divisions.
Düsseldorf's internal turmoil strengthens the case for Freiburg. Coach Alexander Ende faces fan protests after only two matches, his defensive selections have been inconsistent, and reported power struggles behind the scenes suggest a fractured dressing room. Freiburg dismantled this very opponent 3-1 in last season's Pokal, and Fortuna have lost nine of their last twelve competitive fixtures. Backing the visitors feels well grounded.
Over 2.5 goals at 1.43 also warrants attention. Düsseldorf's chaotic backline, assembled without a settled partnership all pre-season, looks vulnerable. Freiburg scored three here last October and, despite their own midfield upheaval, retain enough attacking quality to breach a disorganised defence. A repeat of that 3-1 scoreline would surprise nobody.
Trends to Know about Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg
- Düsseldorf lost nine of last twelve matches
- Freiburg won this fixture 3-1 previously
- Fortuna's internal turmoil weakens home advantage
Form & Statistics: Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg
Fortuna Düsseldorf
Season statistics
SC Freiburg
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
How to Watch Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg Match?
What time is Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg?
This DFB Pokal first-round tie kicks off at 17:00 BST on Saturday 23 August 2026 at the Merkur Spiel-Arena.
Where is Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg being played?
This match takes place at the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Düsseldorf, Fortuna's home ground.
How Can I Watch Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg on TV and Live Stream?
Broadcast details for Fortuna Düsseldorf vs SC Freiburg will be confirmed closer to kickoff by local rights holders.