Late Hollerbach Header Denies Bayern as Union Berlin Snatch Draw

A late lapse in concentration from Bayern Munich’s stand-in goalkeeper Jonas Urbig gifted Union Berlin a dramatic equalizer as the hosts secured a 1-1 draw on Saturday. Despite the setback, Bayern extended their lead at the top of the Bundesliga to nine points.

The Bavarian giants, aiming for a record-extending 34th league title, moved up to 62 points. However, second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, with a game in hand, could cut the deficit when they face VfB Stuttgart on Sunday.

Bayern Dominate Early but Struggle to Break Through

Under Vincent Kompany’s guidance, Bayern controlled possession from the outset, pinning Union Berlin deep in their half. Yet, despite their territorial dominance, the visitors found it difficult to carve out clear-cut chances against a well-organized Union defense.

Serge Gnabry had Bayern’s best opportunity in first-half stoppage time, latching onto a precise Michael Olise through ball. However, his angled effort was expertly turned away by Union goalkeeper Frederik Ronnow, ensuring the teams went into the break goalless.

Sane Strikes, but Bayern’s Lead Is Short-Lived

Bayern intensified their attacking efforts in the second half, with Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane both missing opportunities from promising positions. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute when substitute Leroy Sane clinically fired home Olise’s cutback.

Yet, Bayern’s lead lasted just eight minutes. Having absorbed pressure for much of the game, Union seized their chance when Josip Juranovic’s lofted cross forced Urbig into an unconvincing punch. Benedict Hollerbach, a former Bayern academy player, capitalized on the error by heading home the equalizer.

A Second Setback for Bayern, a Boost for Union

The result marked Bayern’s second consecutive league match without a win following last week’s shock 3-2 home defeat to VfL Bochum. Meanwhile, Union Berlin—still searching for their first-ever Bundesliga victory over Bayern—moved up to 13th place in the standings.

Union played without head coach Steffen Baumgart, who watched from the stands due to a touchline ban. Despite his absence, the Berlin side showed resilience to snatch a crucial point against the league leaders.