Harry Kane and Luis Diaz delivered crucial goals as Bayern Munich dominated RB Leipzig, securing a 2-0 victory and advancing to the DFB-Pokal semi-finals for the first time in six years.
The match, held at the iconic Allianz Arena, showcased Bayern’s resilience and tactical prowess under manager Vincent Kompany.
The first half proved frustrating for the hosts, with RB Leipzig’s goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt standing tall against multiple Bayern attacks.
Despite creating several opportunities, Kompany’s side struggled to break through Leipzig’s organized defense. Early on, Leipzig appeared to take the lead when Christoph Baumgartner fired a powerful shot into the net.
However, a VAR review quickly overturned the goal, ruling Baumgartner offside from Yan Diomande’s precise pass. This decision shifted momentum slightly, but Bayern responded with intent.
Kane tested Vandevoordt with a sharp effort, which was thwarted by a combination of defender Castello Lukeba and the keeper’s quick reflexes.
Moments later, Diaz fired a shot off target, and Kane blazed another chance over the bar, highlighting the tension in the opening period.
Bayern’s goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, was also called into action, denying David Raum’s fizzing long-range strike to keep the score level.
As the second half unfolded, Vandevoordt continued his heroics, clawing away a dangerous header from Kane and producing a stunning save to tip Serge Gnabry’s curling attempt around the post.
These moments, either side of half-time, kept Leipzig in contention, but their resistance crumbled midway through the period.
The turning point arrived in the 64th minute when Vandevoordt tripped Josip Stanisic inside the penalty area, conceding a spot-kick.
Kane stepped up confidently, slamming the ball home from 12 yards to break the deadlock and ignite the Allianz Arena crowd.
Just three minutes later, Bayern doubled their lead. Michael Olise delivered a gorgeous through pass, threading the needle to find Diaz, who finished clinically with a well-taken strike, putting the game beyond Leipzig’s reach.
In the closing stages, Olise nearly added a third, transitioning from creator to potential finisher, but he squandered the opportunity.
Despite this, Bayern controlled the remainder of the match, ensuring a comfortable progression.
This victory positions them just one game away from the prestigious DFB-Pokal final, reigniting hopes of silverware in Kompany’s debut season.
The performance underlined Bayern’s attacking depth, with Kane’s penalty prowess and Diaz’s composure proving decisive.
For Leipzig, the defeat marks another setback in domestic cup competitions, despite Vandevoordt’s valiant efforts.
Overall, it was a testament to Bayern’s ability to capitalize on key moments, setting the stage for an exciting semi-final draw.
