Bayer Leverkusen Stunned by Third-Division Arminia Bielefeld in DFB-Pokal Upset
Bayer Leverkusen suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to third-division side Arminia Bielefeld in the DFB-Pokal semi-finals, marking a major upset in the tournament. The loss ended Leverkusen’s hopes of defending their title and handed coach Xabi Alonso his first cup defeat after previously securing ten consecutive wins in the competition.
Despite taking an early lead through Jonathan Tah in the 17th minute, Leverkusen struggled to control the match. Arminia Bielefeld, who had already eliminated Werder Bremen, Freiburg, and Union Berlin in their impressive cup run, fought back with determination. They dominated large portions of the second half and had multiple opportunities to extend their lead, including a golden chance for Grodowski in the 69th minute, which he failed to convert.
Xabi Alonso’s frustration was evident on the sidelines as Leverkusen failed to regain momentum. Patrik Schick came close to equalizing in the 81st minute, but his header struck the post. This defeat, coming just after their Champions League exit against Bayern Munich, puts additional pressure on Leverkusen, who are now six points behind Bayern in the Bundesliga title race.
Meanwhile, Arminia Bielefeld’s remarkable victory secures their first-ever appearance in a DFB-Pokal final, highlighting the unpredictable and thrilling nature of cup competitions.
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