
Match: DFB-Pokal
Fixture: Preußen Münster vs Hertha Berlin
Local Kick-off Time: 18:00 on August 18th
Handicap Prediction:
Hertha Berlin -0.25 (Asian Handicap)
Draw + Away Win (European Odds)
Predicted Scores: 0-0, 0-1, 1-1
Expected Goals: 0, 1, 2

Prediction & Comprehensive Analysis:
Preußen Münster finished 15th in the 2. Bundesliga last season, recording 8 wins, 12 draws, and 14 losses in 34 matches, totaling 36 points. Overall, their performance in the league was underwhelming, as they were only 1 point above the relegation play-off zone. Throughout the season, Preußen Münster secured just 8 victories, reflecting a notably poor win rate. They scored 40 goals and conceded 43 in total, averaging 1.18 goals scored and 1.26 goals conceded per game—their attack was quite weak, while their defense performed relatively well. Preußen Münster showed mediocre form both home and away last season; in 17 home matches, they picked up 4 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses, with a home win rate below 30%. So far this league season, after a 1-1 home draw against Paderborn in their last match, Preußen Münster have been winless in their last four matches across all competitions. Notably, they are yet to win in two new league matches this season, making their start less than ideal.

Hertha Berlin ranked 11th in the 2. Bundesliga standings last season, with 12 wins, 8 draws, and 14 losses in 34 matches, amassing 44 points. As a mid-to-lower-table side, Hertha Berlin’s overall strength in the league is not prominent, and they still need to fight for better results in the new league season. This season, Hertha Berlin have scored 49 goals and conceded 51, averaging 1.44 goals scored and 1.5 goals conceded per game—their attack was mediocre, while their defense was also underwhelming. In their last 2. Bundesliga match, Hertha Berlin lost 0-2 away to Preußen Münster, ending their previous 8-match unbeaten run across all competitions. So far this new league season, Hertha Berlin have played two matches, one at home and one away. Their away match resulted in a loss, meaning they are still without a win this season.

Summary:
Initial Asian bookmakers mostly set the handicap at Hertha Berlin -0.25, with the away team offered low odds around 0.76. This handicap reflects Hertha Berlin’s strength advantage, as bookmakers initially favored the away side to either win narrowly or draw to cover the spread. Some bookmakers may adjust the handicap upwards to Hertha Berlin -0.5 before the match. Regarding Hertha Berlin, key players' injury recovery is progressing well; coupled with Preußen Münster’s issues such as key players' suspensions and injuries, the possibility of an away win further increases, with the handicap adjustment aimed at balancing betting. In summary, although Hertha Berlin are slightly stronger than Preußen Münster overall with certain attacking advantages, their defense has been severely hit by injuries, and their recent form is mediocre—this may affect their in-game performance and defensive stability. While Preußen Münster are a lower-tier side, they hold some home advantage. Based on odds and handicap analysis, an away win is relatively more likely, but the probability of a draw cannot be ignored.