Union Berlin had previously held Bayern to a 2-2 draw in round 10 of the Bundesliga this season, the only team to deny Bayern three points. Heading into their German Cup round of 1/8 clash at Alten Forsterei, a fierce contest was expected, with luck ultimately favoring coach Vincent Kompany's side.

The opening goal came in the 12th minute when Joshua Kimmich's corner forced an own goal from Ilyas Ansah. Bayern then doubled their lead 12 minutes later with their only self-scored goal of the night, a close-range header by Harry Kane. This marked the English striker's 25th goal in 21 matches this season for Germany's top club.

Diogo Leite (in red) scores an own goal during Bayern's 3-2 victory over Union Berlin in the German Cup round of 1/8 on the evening of 3/12. Photo: AFP

Despite their strong start, Bayern soon lost momentum, struggling against Union Berlin's quick transitions and dynamic play. Union Berlin capitalized in the 40th minute when Leopold Querfeld converted a penalty, awarded after Jonathan Tah handled the ball in the box, to pull one goal back. However, Union Berlin's celebration was short-lived. In the 45+4th minute, Diogo Leite scored another own goal, heading Michael Olise's free-kick past his own keeper to give Bayern a 3-1 lead.

The home side continued to press and reduced the deficit once more in the 55th minute through another Querfeld penalty, this time after Kane committed a defensive error. In the remaining minutes, Union Berlin squandered several opportunities to equalize. Leite had a chance for redemption but volleyed wide from just three meters out.

This narrow victory secured Bayern's place in the quarterfinals, joining: Leverkusen, Hertha Berlin, Freiburg, Leipzig, St Pauli, Stuttgart, and Holstein Kiel.

The draw for the quarterfinal pairings is scheduled for 7/12.

Thanh Quy