Bayer’s Double Escape in the DFB Pokal

In a thrilling DFB-Pokal quarterfinal, Bayer Leverkusen pulled off a miraculous comeback against Cologne, showcasing their trademark resilience. Trailing 0-2, they managed to equalize in the 96th minute, take the lead in extra time, and ultimately secure their place in the semifinals.

However, Bayer also had a stroke of luck on their side, as a late goal by Cologne was disallowed by VAR, ensuring their dramatic victory.

2024-25, Germany - DFB Pokal

Bayer 04 - 1. FC Köln 3:2 (0:1)
Goals: Downs, 45 (0:1); Maina, 54 (0:2); Schick, 61 (1:2); Schick, 90 (2:2); Boniface, 98 (3:2)

Bayer 04: Kovar M.; Tah J.; Tapsoba E. (Hincapie, 46); Grimaldo (Hermoso, 100); Mukiele (Aleix Garcia, 86); Frimpong J.; Wirtz; Palacios Ex. (Boniface, 76); Xhaka; Schick; Buendia (Tella, 60)
Bench: Hradecky; Arthur Soares; Hofmann; Andrich
Yellow Cards: Xhaka 70; Wirtz 104; Aleix Garcia 119

1. FC Köln: Schwabe; Schmied J.; Heintz; Huebers; Martel; Finkgräfe (Paqarada, 72); Ljubicic D.; Huseinbasic (till 72); Maina (Rondić, 80); Thielmann (Gazibegovic, 93); Downs (Tigges, 65)
Substitution: Olesen (from 73)
Bench: Racioppi; Obuz; Waldschmidt
Yellow Cards: Heintz 19; Huebers 64; Thielmann 90