Bayern Munich Collapse as Bochum Stun Bundesliga Leaders with Comeback Victory
Bayern Munich suffered a shock 3-2 home defeat to VfL Bochum on Saturday, squandering a two-goal lead in a dismal prelude to their upcoming Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite the setback, Bayern remain atop the Bundesliga table with 61 points, maintaining an eight-point cushion over Leverkusen, who themselves endured a 2-0 home defeat to Werder Bremen.
Bayern’s Costly Rotations Prove Costly
Fresh from a commanding 3-0 victory over Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie, Bayern boss Vincent Kompany opted for wholesale changes, rotating 10 players. The decision backfired, resulting in the Bavarians’ first home league defeat of the season.
“No excuses. We lost, and we can analyze it all we want, but we have to take responsibility,” Kompany admitted in the post-match press conference. “So far, we’ve always responded well to setbacks. Criticism will come, but our focus is on the reaction.”
Guerreiro Brace Not Enough as Bayern Falter
Bayern appeared in cruise control early on, with Raphael Guerreiro netting twice in the opening 28 minutes. The Portuguese midfielder capitalized on a loose ball in the 14th minute before doubling the lead after Serge Gnabry squandered a 22nd-minute penalty—Bayern’s first miss from the spot after 16 consecutive conversions.
Bochum, however, hit back swiftly, as Jakov Medic rifled in a low drive three minutes later. The visitors were handed further impetus just before the interval when Bayern’s Joao Palhinha received a straight red card for a reckless challenge.
Bochum Complete Stunning Turnaround
With the numerical advantage, Bochum took control after the restart. Ibrahima Sissoko powered home a header in the 51st minute to level the score before Matus Bero delivered the decisive blow in the 71st, weaving through Bayern’s defense to slot past third-choice goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, making his Bundesliga debut.
Bayern pushed for an equalizer, but Bochum’s Timo Horn produced a sensational save in the 79th minute, tipping Jamal Musiala’s close-range header onto the crossbar to seal a famous victory for the visitors.
What’s Next for Bayern?
Kompany’s side now turn their attention back to Europe, where they must regroup ahead of their Champions League second-leg showdown with Leverkusen. With pressure mounting, Bayern’s response will be scrutinized as they look to avoid further setbacks in their pursuit of silverware.