The DFB-Pokal final, comparable to the English FA Cup, is just around the corner hosting Wolfsburg and Borussia Dortmund at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. The Wolves dominated in the semi-finals in what was assumed to be a close match against second division Arminia Bielefeld who previously knocked out multiple top tier Bundesliga clubs. Dortmund overcame their biggest rivals in domestic football, Bayern Munich, after winning on penalties in a 1-1 draw.
The final is sure to be a thrilling match, but will always be remembered by Wolfsburg and their fans who recently lost the life of Junior Malanda after a tragic car accident in January. At the young age of 20, Germany and the rest of the world were shocked by this horrific incident.
Junior Malanda taking on Everton with the Wolfsburg first team. Photo: Witters | SportBid
In respect of the Belgian defensive midfielder, Wolfsburg will have a green heart with the number 19 on it to pay their tributes for his services to the club. Malanda has played for Waregem, Lille, and Wolfsburg during his young career, even making appearances for Belgium’s youth national team.
Wolfsburg's specialized jersey in honor of the late Junior Malanda. Photo @AmrPharaohh
Jurgen Klopp is hoping to finish the season on a high note after a horrible season in the Bundesliga for Dortmund’s standards. BVB barely secured a Europa League spot after their 3-2 win over Werder Bremen at home. Currently fans will be happy for the massive turn around the club has managed to achieve after their relegation scare near the halfway point of the season at Christmas time.
Dortmund have yet to defeat Wolfsburg this season after a draw at home and a loss away. However, they also lost both fixtures against the Bundesliga winners and managed to knock them out of the tournament after Munich’s horrific display during penalties. Despite BVB’s poor form in domestic league play, they have managed to continuously impress in tournaments reflecting past seasons.
The DFB-Pokal final will take place on Saturday, May 30th at 12:00pm MST.
