As the DFB-Pokal kicks off, an intriguing match awaits fans on August 18, 2025, when Rot-Weiss Essen hosts Borussia Dortmund at the Stadion an der Hafenstrasse. This encounter not only marks Dortmund's first official fixture of the 2025-26 season but also pits a third-tier team against a Bundesliga giant.

The Bundesliga side needed a late finish to break the third-division club's resistance, securing a nervous 1-0 victory.

Borussia Dortmund left it late to defeat third division Rot-Weiss Essen 1-0 and progess to the DFB-Pokal second round. Niko Kovač named a mostly full-strength side, but will have been disappointed with his side's efforts for large parts as they toiled against a side two leagues below them.

The Borussia Dortmund players and head coach were left absolutely devastated after Yan Couto was stretchered off in a DFB-Pokal encounter.

Here are the live streaming details, TV channel, kick-off time & where to watch DFB-Pokal match between Rot-Weiss Essen vs Borussia Dortmund.