Kane’s Late Penalty Rescues Bayern Munich in Dramatic 2-2 Draw Against Mainz

Introduction: A Surprising Result at the Allianz Arena

In a dramatic Bundesliga encounter on 14 December 2025, Bayern Munich were held to a point by bottom club Mainz as Harry Kane’s late penalty salvaged a 2-2 draw. The result highlighted the unpredictable nature of football, as Bayern entered Matchday 14 with an unprecedented record of 12 wins and one draw, whilst bottom-placed Mainz arrived with new coach Urs Fischer at the helm. This match showcased Bayern’s attacking dominance but also exposed their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly from set pieces.

Match Summary: Dominance Without Reward

Bayern had 85 per cent possession and 24 shots to three but couldn’t secure the win. Bayern opened the scoring in the 29th minute when Lennart Karl converted a cut back from Serge Gnabry, with the 17-year-old continuing his impressive form. However, Mainz equalised in added time of the first half as William Bøving’s curling free kick found 18-year-old Kacper Potulski, whose header stunned Manuel Neuer.

The second half brought more drama. Against the run of play, Mainz took an unlikely lead when Stefan Bell’s looping pass was met by Jae-Sung Lee, who made it 2-1 in the 67th minute. Salvation came late when Potulski pulled Kane’s shirt in the box, and the England captain made no mistake from the spot to rescue a point.

Significance and Outlook

The draw represents a missed opportunity for Bayern to extend their commanding Bundesliga lead. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany acknowledged that Mainz did a decent job, but stressed expectations remain to win at home, regardless of the opponent. For Mainz, it was a positive first game for Fischer, building momentum ahead of a crucial relegation six-pointer against St.Pauli. The result underscores Bayern’s ongoing set-piece defensive issues whilst demonstrating that even league leaders can be tested by determined opposition employing smart tactical approaches.