Holstein Kiel vs 1899 Hoffenheim prediction

AI match recap

This cup tie pits a struggling but stubborn Kiel side against a Hoffenheim team carrying fresher attacking momentum. The visitors have the deeper attacking profile and a strong recent record in this matchup, while Kiel's home crowd, compact defending and set-pieces are their route to prolonging the contest. The decisive question is whether Kiel can keep the centre closed and survive Hoffenheim's wide pressure. Confirmed line-ups matter greatly because both squads have reported availability concerns.

Head-to-head analysis

Hoffenheim have won every listed recent meeting with Kiel, across league, cup and friendly competition. That history supports the visitors' belief, although the cup setting and Kiel's home advantage make it less determinative than the current line-ups.

Injuries and absences

Kiel's reported doubts and absences are potentially more disruptive because they affect both defensive stability and their ability to keep the ball after regaining it. Hoffenheim also lack De Cat, Hajdari and Wimmer, narrowing their options but not changing their intended possession-led approach.

Form (last 5)

Holstein Kiel vs 1899 Hoffenheim stats

Last meetings

• 2026-07-291899 Hoffenheim 3-1 Holstein Kiel
• 2025-01-18Holstein Kiel 1-3 1899 Hoffenheim
• 2024-08-241899 Hoffenheim 3-2 Holstein Kiel
• 2021-10-261899 Hoffenheim 5-1 Holstein Kiel

Other DFB-Pokal matches

• VfL Bochum – FSV Mainz 05
• SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach – FC Augsburg
• Hamburger SV – Eintracht Frankfurt
• Rot-Weiß Essen – RB Leipzig
• Borussia Mönchengladbach – Karlsruher SC
• Borussia Dortmund – Werder Bremen
• SV Elversberg – SV Darmstadt 98
• 1. FC Köln – Union Berlin