SV Tillmitsch 1–1 SKN St. Pölten (AET): Cup Contest Ends Level After Extra Time

SV Tillmitsch and SKN St. Pölten played out a tense 1–1 draw in the Austrian Cup first round on 25 July 2026, with both sides having chances to win before the match went to extra time. The tie remains alive, and a replay will be needed to decide who advances to the next stage.

Match Overview

The game was closely fought from the start, with St. Pölten, playing at a higher level, expected to dominate. However, Tillmitsch, the lower-league hosts, matched their opponents physically and tactically. The first half ended goalless, but the second period saw both teams find the net within ten minutes of each other. Extra time failed to produce a winner, despite several near misses.

Key Moments

• 63’ – Goal: Tillmitsch broke the deadlock when forward Manuel Pucher volleyed home from a cross.
• 73’ – Goal: St. Pölten equalised through midfielder Daniel Schütz, who fired home after a corner was only partially cleared.
• 105’ – Missed Chance: St. Pölten’s top scorer Mario Galić hit the crossbar with a header.
• 117’ – Saved: Tillmitsch goalkeeper Lukas Hölzl made a brilliant one-handed stop to preserve the draw.

Tactical Story

Tillmitsch set up in a compact 4-4-1-1, aiming to frustrate St. Pölten and hit on the break. St. Pölten dominated possession with a 4-3-3 but lacked precision in the final third. The home side’s disciplined defensive shape made it difficult for the visitors to create clear-cut opportunities.

Standout Players

• Lukas Hölzl (Tillmitsch): Made several vital saves, including the crucial stop in extra time.
• Manuel Pucher (Tillmitsch): Scored a well-taken goal and worked tirelessly up front.
• Daniel Schütz (St. Pölten): The equaliser was well taken, and he was the visitors’ most creative player.

Season Impact

The result means a replay will be scheduled, giving Tillmitsch another chance to cause an upset. For St. Pölten, the extra fixture adds to an already busy schedule, but they will be favourites to win the rematch. Both sides can take positives from a competitive Cup tie.