On March 15, 2025, Bayern Munich faced off against Union Berlin at the Alte Försterei, where they allowed the match to slip away with a 1-1 draw. This result marks another setback for Bayern as they continue to confront pressures from their title-chasing rivals.
Before the match, Bayern was riding high after advancing to the Champions League quarterfinals. Unfortunately for them, they carried the weight of their recent Bundesliga defeat to Bochum, which left them vulnerable to slipping points again. This time, they fell short against Union Berlin, who, bolstered by their previous victory over Frankfurt, demonstrated grit and resilience.
The game kicked off with Bayern dictifying play, boasting over 70% possession throughout the first half. Despite their command over the ball, the visitors found themselves stifled by Union's organized defense. Michael Olise emerged as one of Bayern’s most effective players, cleverly maneuvering through tight spaces yet failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Each of Bayern's attempts seemed blocked by Ution’s garrison of defenders led by goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow, who made key saves to keep the match level.
The first half concluded without either team finding the net. Yet, as the second half unfolded, the intensity increased, resulting in more action. At the 75-minute mark, Leroy Sané, who had been earlier substituted onto the field, broke the deadlock by scoring Bayern's opening goal, courtesy of Josip Stanišić's assist. Sané's effort was earned through cohesive teamwork and skillfully executed passing.
Just when it appeared Bayern could secure all three points, calamity struck as goalkeeper Jonas Urbig faltered, allowing Union's Benedict Hollerbach to equalize just minutes later, at the 83rd minute. Hollerbach, who had been inserted as a substitute, latched onto Urbig's fumbled attempt to catch Josip Juranović’s cross. This blunder proved costly and sent shockwaves through the Bayern camp.
Post-match, several players and coaches weighed in on the goings-on. Union's head coach, Steffen Baumgart, observed from the stands due to suspension and lauded his team’s valiant defending and determination. "We parked the bus effectively today," Baumgart said, admitting the team managed to gain the slice of luck needed to snatch the equalizing goal. Meanwhile, Union’s captain, Christopher Trimmel, commented, "When you play against Bayern like we did, you know not much can go wrong if you stay disciplined. Luckily, we found ourselves scoring the equalizer."
Bayern's Leroy Sané expressed disappointment at the outcome but remained hopeful: "We knew this was going to be tough. Getting the lead was pivotal for us, but conceding late hurts. We won't let this deter us. We press on to our next game.”
Union Berlin's late surge boosted their morale and points standing. This was their second consecutive match showing form and might just revitalize their season as they continue their struggle to avoid relegation. They now sit more comfortably above the relegation zone with the upcoming challenging fixture schedule against teams like Freiburg, Leverkusen, and Stuttgart.
With this draw, Bayern Munich remains top of the Bundesliga table, yet the pressure is mounting. Bayer Leverkusen looms just a few points behind, ready to close the gap with victory over Stuttgart on March 16. If Leverkusen secures the points, the title race could become significantly tighter.
Reflecting on the game, it is evident this clash not only showcased the resilience of Union Berlin but also illustrated Bayern’s vulnerabilities. Each match down the stretch of the season will carry weight, and for the championship chase, every single point—especially against rivals—will be more than just points accumulated; they shape the narrative of the Bundesliga up to its crescendo.