Two clubs face DFB-Pokal opening without their captains

Two clubs enter the first round of the DFB-Pokal without their captains, as Leonardo Bittencourt is suspended for Energie Cottbus’s clash with FC Augsburg and another Bundesliga captain also sits out. Both teams will have to adjust their line‑ups ahead of the knockout tie.

Leonardo Bittencourt sits out

Bittencourt normally wears the armband for Energie Cottbus and will miss the match after his suspension was confirmed by the competition authorities. His absence removes a key on‑field leader for the Cottbus side.

Another Bundesliga captain also banned

The second club, a Bundesliga side, will also be without its captain for the same round of the DFB-Pokals. The identity of that captain has not been disclosed in the brief.

Both managers said they will name temporary armbearers for the tie, forcing tactical adjustments and a reshuffle of on‑field responsibilities. The change tests the depth of leadership within each squad.

Energie Cottbus travel to face FC Augsburg in the DFB-Pokal opening round, a fixture that forms part of the competition’s knockout stage. The match will be played without the usual captaincy structure on either side.

Playing without captains may affect on‑field communication and morale, as the designated leaders normally organise play and motivate teammates. The clubs hope their squads can compensate for the loss of their captains.

These players will be missing from the line‑ups, and the list of additional suspended players has not been released. Further details are expected from the German Football Association.