Matchday 26 ended with a surprising result in the Allianz Arena. Borussia Mönchengladbach beat record champions FC Bayern München 2-0 and strengthened their grip on a Champions League spot. Raffael’s brace (30’ & 77’) won the game for the visitors. Elsewhere on Sunday, Mainz drew 1-1 with VfL Wolfsburg.
Bayern started strongly and created early chances through Robert Lewandowski (3’) and Arjen Robben (6’). The Bavarians saw plenty of possession early on but were unable to capitalise. Gladbach were dangerous on the counter but Bayern’s defence, marshalled by Holger Badstuber, stood firm. Raffael put Borussia in front shortly after the half hour mark. His powerful volley from Patrick Herrmann’s cross was dropped into his own net by Manuel Neuer.
Raffael completes his brace
David Alaba’s deflected effort before the break almost brought Bayern back into the game. After the interval the hosts continued to see plenty of the ball but were unable to convert any of their chances. Müller and Boateng had chances to equalise whilst at the other end André Hahn’s powerful effort was tipped onto the post by Neuer.
Juan Bernat had Bayern’s best chance with 15 minutes left on the clock but it was turned behind by Yann Sommer. Moments later the fohlenelf doubled their lead. Stunning play from Christoph Kramer was finished off emphatically by Raffael. The final chance of the game fell to the home side but Sommer kept Lewandowski and Müller at bay.
1-1 between Mainz and Wolfsburg
Dieter Hecking’s side progressed in the Europa League on Thursday and travelled to Mainz on Saturday hoping to continue their good form. Mainz started stronger than the Wolves and took the lead early on. Johannes Geis’ corner was powerfully headed home by Niko Bungert. Diego Benaglio was left clutching at thin air.
Mainz continued to press once they went in front; Geis’ free kick hit the post shortly before the half hour mark and Shinji Okazaki had a goal chalked off for offside on the stroke of half time. Wolfsburg’s biggest chance of the half saw Kevin de Bruyne (41’) fire straight at Loris Karius from a tight angle.
Wolfsburg improved after the break although it took them 15 minutes to create a chance. Luiz Gustavo’s lung busting run ended with a spectacular 25 yard effort hit the post and get cleared behind for a corner. De Bruyne’s set piece was flicked on by Naldo to Gustavo who made no mistake from inside the six yard box. After equalising, Wolfsburg looked the most likely to score again, however, Mainz’s solid defence were resolute.