Bayern Munich Falls To Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 In DFB Pokal After Neuer's Red Card

Add as a preferred source on Google

Bayern Munich faced a setback in the DFB Pokal, losing 1-0 to Bayer Leverkusen at Allianz Arena. Nathan Tella's goal in the second half secured the win for Xabi Alonso's team, advancing them to the quarter-finals. Bayern played with ten men after Manuel Neuer was sent off early for a foul on Jeremie Frimpong.

Despite being a player down, Vincent Kompany's squad managed to create several opportunities in the first half. Kingsley Coman, Konrad Laimer, and Leon Goretzka came close to scoring. However, it was Leverkusen who capitalised on their chance when Tella headed in Alex Grimaldo's cross in the 69th minute.

Leverkusen have now achieved nine consecutive victories in the DFB Pokal, maintaining clean sheets in their last five matches. This marks their longest winning streak since at least the 2005-06 season. Bayern Munich had previously won all five of their DFB Pokal encounters against Leverkusen but have now faced back-to-back eliminations at home.

Xabi Alonso has enjoyed an impressive start as a coach in this competition, winning all nine of his matches. Only Louis van Gaal and Pep Guardiola have had longer undefeated starts this millennium, each with ten wins. "9 - Xabi Alonso has won all nine of his DFB Cup matches as a coach - only two coaches have gone longer undefeated in the DFB Cup at the start of their coaching careers this millennium: Louis van Gaal and Pep Guardiola (both in the first 10). Immaculate."

In stoppage time, Michael Olise nearly equalised for Bayern with a curling shot that narrowly missed. However, Leverkusen held firm to continue their title defence successfully. This defeat marked Bayern's first instance of consecutive home losses leading to elimination from this tournament.

The match highlighted Leverkusen's defensive strength and strategic play under Alonso's guidance. Their ability to maintain composure and secure crucial victories underscores their determination to defend their title effectively.