In the league this season, Bayer 04 Leverkusen and VfB Stuttgart were fierce rivals, engaging in intense matches. However, in the DFB-Pokal final today (8 pm/ARD), Leverkusen supporters will be cheering for Kaiserslautern, a second-division team. The reason being, if Leverkusen wins the double of the league and cup titles, Stuttgart – the league runners-up – will face off against them in the Supercup match.
For Stuttgart, participating in the Supercup would not only be a prestigious sporting achievement but also financially rewarding. A prize of 2.5 million euros awaits the team just for participating, with the potential to earn 3.5 million euros for a victory. Additionally, revenue from ticket sales, usually shared between clubs, would further boost Stuttgart’s coffers. Winning the Supercup would also present Stuttgart with the opportunity to clinch their first title in 17 years, adding a historic milestone to their record.
Despite their on-field rivalry, Leverkusen fans find themselves in the unusual position of rooting for their league adversary’s opponent in the cup final. As the game unfolds tonight, the result will not only determine the cup winner but also potentially set the stage for an exciting clash between Leverkusen and Stuttgart in the Supercup. Football fans eagerly await the outcome, as the drama of German football continues to unfold.