Bayern Munich were eager to make a deep push into the DFB-Pokal for the first time since the 2019/2020 season — when they trumped Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 to win the competition. However, this time around it was Die Werkself that had the last laugh, ultimately sending Bayern Munich packing after a 1-0 triumph in the Round of 16 at the Allianz Arena.
While the result is unchallengeable, Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich feels his side were hard done by, despite going one man down after Manuel Neuer’s 17th minute red card.
“The better team doesn’t always win. Anyone who watched the game has to have sympathy for us and the way we played today,” Kimmich said after the match in comments captured by @iMiaSanMia. “Considering the opponent, today was our best performance of the season. The first title is gone, which hurts and is annoying. When I look at the results in the top games, it’s sobering. But I still think we are on the right path.”
Kimmich may have a point as Bayern managed to dominate possession and outshoot Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen while playing majority of the game with ten men. Although, possession means nothing if it doesn’t generate quality scoring chances, which in turn means nothing if you can’t put the ball in the back of the net. Neither of which Bayern were successful with against last season’s Bundesliga champions.
A bitter loss to swallow for Bayern but as we’ve seen before with Kompany’s side, a tough defeat is often the catalyst for growth and improvement. Let us hope that’s the case once again.
Looking for more thoughts and analysis on Bayern Munich’s shocking 1-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen in the DFB-Pokal? Then you came to the right place. Check out the Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show on Patreon, Spotify or below:
