Eintracht Braunschweig 2-4 1. FC Union Berlin: Union survive cup scare in seven-goal thriller

1. FC Union Berlin advanced to the DFB-Pokal second round with a 4-2 victory away to Eintracht Braunschweig on 23 August 2026. The Bundesliga side were made to work far harder than expected, as their hosts twice threatened to spark a comeback in a lively first-round encounter.

Match overview

This was the most competitive tie of the day among the opening-round games involving top-flight clubs. Braunschweig, playing in the 2. Bundesliga, showed no fear and matched Union for long spells. They created chances, pushed forward with confidence, and made the match an open, entertaining contest.

Union, however, showed the composure and individual quality that comes from regular Bundesliga football. Every time Braunschweig reduced the deficit, the visitors responded quickly to restore their cushion.

Key moments

• Union breakthrough: The visitors took the lead with a well-taken goal, but Braunschweig refused to fold.
• Second Union goal: A sharp counter-attack doubled the advantage just before the interval.
• Braunschweig fightback: The home side pulled one back early in the second half, setting up a tense finale.
• Killer blow: Union responded with two further goals to seal a 4-2 result and kill off any hope of extra time.

What it means

For Union Berlin, advancing was the priority, and the manner of the performance will please their manager. Coming through a tricky away cup tie with goals and character is valuable preparation for the season ahead.

Eintracht Braunschweig will feel disappointed but not disgraced. They pushed a Bundesliga opponent all the way and showed that they can compete at a high level. Their focus now turns entirely to the 2. Bundesliga campaign, where they will hope to build on this encouraging display.