Berlin Bound: Kane and Díaz Sink Leverkusen as Bayern Reach DFB-Pokal Final

The treble dream is very much alive! On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Bayern Munich produced a clinical performance at the BayArena to defeat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 in the DFB-Pokal semi-final. For the first time in six years, the Bavarians have secured their place in the Berlin showpiece, ending Leverkusen’s hopes of a domestic cup double.

The victory was a tactical masterclass from Vincent Kompany, whose side dominated the first half and withstood a second-half resurgence from the hosts to secure the win.


1. Match Highlights: The "Magnificent Seven" for Kane

Bayern set the tone from the opening whistle, suffocating Leverkusen with high pressure and clinical transitions.

The Breakthrough (20’): After a dominant start, Harry Kane found the roof of the net after a perfectly weighted cutback from Jamal Musiala. This was Kane's 7th goal of this DFB-Pokal campaign—the most by any player in seven years.

The Flekken Stand: Leverkusen goalkeeper Mark Flekken was the only reason the score stayed respectable, making several world-class saves to deny both Kane and Luis Díaz in the first half.

The VAR Finisher (90+3’): With Leverkusen throwing everyone forward for an equalizer, Bayern struck on the counter. Luis Díaz clipped the ball past Flekken from a Leon Goretzka square pass. Initially ruled out for offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review to seal the result.


2. Strategic Impact: The Road to the Treble

Bayern's dominance was reflected in the stats, highlighting the gap between the two sides on the night.

Treble Chasing: With the Bundesliga title looking likely and a Champions League semi-final on the horizon, Vincent Kompany's side is in prime position to sweep all major silverware this season.

Ending the Drought: This marks Bayern's first DFB-Pokal final appearance since 2020. They will face either Stuttgart or Freiburg in the final on May 23.

Leverkusen’s Record Ends: Xabi Alonso’s side failed to score for the first time in 42 DFB-Pokal matches, a streak dating back years.


3. Key Performers

Harry Kane: The man for the big occasion. His early goal settled the nerves and set the stage for a historic night.

Luis Díaz: His pace on the counter was a constant threat, and his composure to finish the game in stoppage time proved vital.

Jamal Musiala: The architect in the middle. His vision and assist for the opener showcased why he’s the heartbeat of this Bayern attack.

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