In a stunning upset, Bayer Leverkusen edged out Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich with a narrow 1-0 victory to advance to the DFB-Pokal quarterfinals. The deciding goal came in the second half when Nathan Tella headed in a precise cross from Alex Grimaldo, securing Leverkusen's spot in the next round.
This match marked Bayern's first defeat of the season in both the league and domestic cup competitions. The loss was compounded by an early setback as Bayern's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer received a straight red card in the 17th minute, the first dismissal of his illustrious 38-year career.
With Neuer sent off, Bayern had to make immediate adjustments, bringing in reserve goalkeeper Daniel Peretz for Leroy Sane. Despite having a numerical advantage, Bayern struggled to create clear chances, with key players like Kingsley Coman, Konrad Laimer, and Leon Goretzka unable to break through Leverkusen's defense.
Leverkusen's coach, Xabi Alonso, remains unbeaten in nine German Cup matches, while his team has now gone five consecutive games against Bayern without a defeat. Defender Jonathan Tah praised the team's strategic execution, stating, \"It was not our best game with the ball or even with an extra man but we applied our plan. We were effective and Nathan delivered the winner.\"
Both teams were missing their leading strikers, with Leverkusen without Victor Boniface and Bayern missing Bundesliga top scorer Harry Kane, sidelined with injuries. Despite these absences, Leverkusen maintained their composure and held onto their slim lead until the final whistle.
The victory not only propels Leverkusen further into the competition but also ends Bayern Munich's quest for the German Cup title, which they last won in 2020.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com