Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich: Bavarians Survive Dramatic DFB-Pokal Encounter

Introduction: High-Stakes Cup Football Returns to Berlin

The clash between Union Berlin and Bayern Munich has become one of German football’s most compelling fixtures, and their latest encounter in the DFB-Pokal Round of 16 on 3rd December 2025 lived up to expectations. FC Bayern beat Union Berlin 3-2 on Wednesday night to progress to the DFB Cup quarter-finals, but the path to victory was far from straightforward for Vincent Kompany’s side. This match held particular significance as Bayern’s recent record in the DFB-Pokal leaves plenty to be desired. This victory ensures they will participate in the quarter-finals for just the second time in the last six seasons.

Match Overview: Two Own Goals Define the Contest

Bayern Munich booked their place in the quarterfinals after a thrilling 3–2 win at the Alte Försterei. The Bavarians opened the scoring via a Union own goal early, then doubled their lead through Harry Kane’s header. The unusual nature of Bayern’s goals highlighted the unpredictable nature of cup football. A Joshua Kimmich corner deflected in off the thigh of the unfortunate Ilyas Ansah after 12 minutes, before Kane rose highest to nod another of his captain’s set-piece deliveries home.

Union Berlin fought back with determination, making the match intensely competitive. Two penalties from Leopold Querfeld – one conceded by Kane – ensured it was far from a routine victory for Bayern, who held off the hosts’ attempted fightback at the Stadion An der Alten Forsterei. The home side made history as Querfeld became the first player to score two penalties against Neuer in a single game, in his 906th professional match for club and country.

Recent Form and Context

This wasn’t the first meeting between these sides in recent weeks. FC Bayern were held to a 1-1 draw away at Union Berlin on Saturday afternoon in their Bundesliga encounter in March 2025, demonstrating Union’s ability to frustrate the German giants. The cup match provided Bayern with an opportunity for redemption.

The statistical narrative of the match revealed just how fortunate Bayern were. They might count themselves somewhat fortunate to advance after attempting just six shots and amassing 0.74 expected goals (xG), with Union recording 18 shots and 2.69 xG, though a substantial portion of Union’s xG came from their two penalties.

Conclusion: Significance for Both Sides

Bayern Munich’s progression to the quarter-finals represents an important milestone for a club seeking to reclaim domestic dominance. Joshua Kimmich is making the DFB-Pokal a priority for Bayern Munich this season after they battled past Union Berlin 3-2 to make the quarter-finals. For Union Berlin, despite the defeat, their spirited performance demonstrated their continued growth as a Bundesliga force capable of challenging Germany’s elite clubs.

The Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich rivalry continues to produce compelling football, with this DFB-Pokal encounter serving as another chapter in their increasingly competitive relationship. Bayern’s ability to withstand Union’s pressure and advance may prove crucial in their pursuit of silverware this season.