Wolfsburg coach Mark van Bommel
Wolfsburg escaped disgrace in the DFB Cup – or did it? A change mistake could mean the end despite an initial success.
The team of coach Mark van Bommel had a lot of trouble with regional division Preußen Münster. Only a goal by Josip Brekalo in the 90th minute brought extra time, and the Bundesliga club prevailed 3-1. But the matter could have consequences, even the cup threatens. Reason: a mistake.
Coach Van Bommel sent six fresh forces onto the field, but only five are allowed. In the DFB implementation regulations for cup games it is stated: “During the game five players may be exchanged. Any additional substitution in games with overtime is not permitted.”
Wolfsburg brought goalscorers Brekalo, Maximilian Arnold and Kevin Mbabu in the regular season. Yannick Gerhardt, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Admir Mehmedi were substituted on in extra time, a total of six players. Referee Christian Dingert noted the substitution error according to “kicker” in the game report. According to their own statements, the Wolfsburg team asked the fourth official during the game whether another change was allowed. “I spoke to the referee about it,” said Van Bommel in “Bild”.
The club management did not want to comment on the incident after the game. In any case, Münster can now lodge a protest against the rating. “Yes, we are aware that Wolfsburg has made six changes. We will discuss this internally and decide whether and how we should proceed against it,” said club manager Peter Niemeyer. One reason for the mishap could be that an additional sixth change in extra time was allowed at the EM. However, this is not provided for in the DFB regulations.
