Adi Hütter’s Eintracht Frankfurt travelled to the Allianz Arena, losing to Bayern Munich by two goals to one in the DFB Pokal semi-final. Ivan Perišić opened the scoring midway through the first half. Second-half substitute Danny da Costa equalised for Frankfurt before Robert Lewandowski grabbed the Bayern winner in the 75th minute.
Bayern Munich Defeat Eintracht Frankfurt in DFB Pokal Semi-Final
A Game of Two Halves
The two sides met in the Bundesliga last month and the end result was the same. Just as in yesterday’s cup match, Frankfurt sat back in the first half, inviting pressure, but then came out much more aggressive after the half time team talk. In May, Bayern led by three going into the 60th minute, but Frankfurt woke up and scored two quick succession goals.
Adi Hütter might regret beginning so conservative in both matches, as in both meetings with Bayern, Frankfurt played a much higher line and began crafting scoring chances in the second half. Fans will be left feeling disappointed that Die Adler did not play as aggressive and offensive throughout the entire match.
Bayer Leverkusen Defeated 1. FC Saarbrücken in the other DFB Pokal Semi Final
On Tuesday, Bayer Leverkusen defeated Regionalliga side 1. FC Saarbrücken in the other DFB Pokal semi-final. Goals from Lucas Alario, Moussa Diaby, and Karim Bellarabi sealed the victory over the fourth division club. Saarbrücken shockingly defeated both 1. FC Köln and Fortuna Düsseldorf on their path to the semi-final. Leverkusen were not just at an advantage on paper, but this was Saarbrücken’s first match since March. Unlike Germany’s top three leagues, the Regionalliga will not restart.
Bayern Munich Will Face Bayer Leverkusen in the DFB Pokal Final
On July 4, in Berlin’s Olympiastadion, Bayern will face Bayer Leverkusen in the DFB Pokal final. Leverkusen boast a squad of young prospects and experienced veterans. Super talent Kai Havertz just turned 20, Paulinho and Diaby are 19, and Florian Wirtz is only 17. These youngsters are supported by the older Bender brothers, Kevin Volland, and Charles Aránguiz. The match could be Havertz’s final appearance for Leverkusen, as transfer rumours have been rampant as of late.
The Bayern squad requires little introduction, as the usual suspects Lewandowski, Kingsley Coman, Thiago, Joshua Kimmich, and the lighting fast Alphonso Davies will lead the attack. Bayern are the clear favourites, but the exciting young squad that Peter Bosz has built at Leverkusen will surely make things interesting.
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