German Cup winners Leverkusen eliminate 10-man Bayern
After defeating rivals Bayern Munich. German Cup winners Bayer Leverkusen secured their spot in the quarterfinals with a goal from Nathan Tella.
In the 17th minute. Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was sent off when he came out of his goal and clashed with the oncoming Jeremie Frimpong. Reducing the home team to 10 men.
Leverkusen had to wait until the 69th minute to take the lead through Tella. A former Burnley and Southampton attacker, despite the benefit of having an extra man.
Tella first met a wonderful cross into the box from Alex Grimaldo. And it soared in past Daniel Peretz, Bayern’s substitute keeper.
However, Vincent Kompany’s team had their opportunities despite missing star striker Harry Kane due to injury.
Defender Dayot Upamecano narrowly missed tying the score with a header into the far post.
On the cusp of halftime, Kim Min-jae also headed feebly wide. And Kingsley Coman rose highest to meet Joshua Kimmich’s corner but was unable to get his header on goal.
After winning his eighth straight German Cup game as Leverkusen’s manager. Xabi Alonso is yet to lose in the competition, whereas 20-time champion Bayern has not taken home the title since 2020.
