Bayern Munich's astonishing 16-game winning run officially ended at Union Berlin's stronghold, Alten Forsterei. Yet, the thrilling 2-2 draw in Bundesliga's 10th round is regarded as a "needed setback," a timely warning for the "Bavarian giants" to keep their feet on the ground and maintain their burning desire.
No team can keep winning indefinitely, and Bayern’s draw after a three-month winning streak was predictable. Against a tough Union Berlin side, who had only lost once in six home matches so far this season, and with their stamina depleted following the intense clash with PSG, Bayern faced numerous challenges. They fell behind twice due to Danilho Doekhi’s goals, who exploited rare mistakes in Bayern’s defense, including Manuel Neuer’s fundamental error in catching the ball that led to the first conceded goal.
Nevertheless, the spirit of a champion prevailed. Harry Kane’s injury-time equalizer to make it 2-2 not only secured a valuable point but also preserved Bayern’s unbeaten run and pride. Although this was a rare moment for Germany’s top team to show their never-give-up attitude, they did so impressively. Individually, this marked Kane’s 23rd goal across all competitions this season, highlighting his crucial role for the "Bavarian giants," despite facing many challenges throughout the match.
Bayern Munich Needed This Small Setback to Avoid Complacency
More important than the points gained is the psychological impact of this draw. Both Kane and Neuer viewed it positively. Kane believed that the end of the winning streak "is not necessarily a bad thing," as it reduces pressure and allows the team to "refocus on winning." Neuer even considered it "a very good point" because it helped Bayern extend their lead over chasing rivals Leipzig and Dortmund, both of whom slipped up this round.
The German media also agreed that this was a "necessary stumble" for coach Vincent Kompany’s squad to avoid the trap of complacency and resting on their laurels. Breaking the winning streak will help Bayern’s players shed the psychological burden of maintaining a record and reignite their desire to win, along with a high level of focus—an essential factor for the demanding phase ahead.