DFB-Pokal: Match between Waldhof Mannheim and Kaiserslautern interrupted after pitch invasion

Police bring the situation under control

For third-division side SV Waldhof Mannheim, the encounter against 1. FC Kaiserslautern was the first competitive match of the new season in the DFB-Pokal. 1. FC Kaiserslautern, whose goalkeeper Julian Krahl was part of the starting lineup, went into the duel as the favorite.

The meeting between the two clubs is considered one of the traditional derbies of the Southwest region. Accordingly, the mood at the Mannheim stadium was already tense before kickoff, which was reflected in an emotionally charged atmosphere in the stands.

Background: The Southwest Derby

Neither SV Waldhof Mannheim nor 1. FC Kaiserslautern initially made any public statements about the exact background to the pitch invasion, such as possible triggers during the course of the match or in the stands. The German Football Association (DFB) also did not initially comment on the incident.

The DFB-Pokal is one of the most important national competitions in German football. Outbreaks of violence such as a pitch invasion generally lead to investigations and possible sporting-law consequences for the clubs involved.

Possible consequences for the clubs

Robert Schröder was appointed as the referee for the encounter. No information was initially available on the timing of a possible resumption or a decision on abandoning the match.