Bayern Munich Draws with Bayer Leverkusen as Dortmund Closes Gap in Bundesliga

Berlin (AP) — Bayern Munich salvaged a 1-1 draw against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, finishing the match with nine players, while Borussia Dortmund narrowed the gap in the Bundesliga title race to nine points. The result came as Harry Kane made his return from injury.

Match Details

Aleix García opened the scoring for Bayer Leverkusen in the sixth minute with a deflected shot, assisted by Patrik Schick after a steal by Montrell Culbreath. Bayern Munich equalized in the 69th minute through Luis Díaz, set up by Michael Olise.

Red Cards and Controversy

The match was marred by two red cards for Bayern Munich. Nicolas Jackson was sent off in the 42nd minute for a reckless challenge on Martin Terrier. Later, Luis Díaz received a second yellow card in the 84th minute for diving, a decision that Bayern coach Vincent Kompany and his players strongly contested. Referee Christian Dingert admitted after the game, in comments to Sky Sport, that the decision to send off Díaz was incorrect after reviewing the play.

Kane’s Return and Disallowed Goal

Harry Kane made his return to action after recovering from a calf injury. He had a goal disallowed in the 62nd minute for a handball in the buildup. Kane had previously scored eight goals in his last four Bundesliga matches.

Goalkeeping Situation for Bayern

Bayern Munich was forced to play with third-choice goalkeeper Sven Ulreich due to calf injury to Manuel Neuer and a concussion suffered by backup Jonas Urbig in a midweek Champions League match against Atalanta.

Late Drama and Stoppage Time

Despite being down to nine men, Bayern Munich held on for the draw. Bayer Leverkusen had a goal ruled out in stoppage time, preventing them from securing a win.

Bundesliga Standings

Following the draw, Bayern Munich maintains its lead in the Bundesliga, but Borussia Dortmund has reduced the deficit to nine points. A future match between Borussia Dortmund and Bayer 04 Leverkusen is scheduled for April 11, 2026, at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund.

Source: wtop.com, lasvegassun.com