Nigerian international Nathan Tella’s goal made the difference as Bayer Leverkusen beat Bayern Munich to advance to the quarterfinal of the DFB-Pokal.

Bayern Munich had their captain, Manuel Neuer, sent off in the first half for a foul on Frimpong. It was the veteran’s first red card of his professional career.

Despite this, Bayern Munich were the better side but lacked the final touch. It was clear that the German giants missed Harry Kane, who is out due to a hamstring injury.

Xabi Alonso’s tactical substitution in the 61st minute, bringing Tella in, proved to make the difference as the player got the breakthrough goal that would prove to be the winner eight minutes later.

His Nigerian and Bayer Leverkusen teammate Victor Boniface shared the joy on his X account: “Nathan, my guy! Vamos ️.” He also commented on Bayer Leverkusen’s quarterfinal post: “Here we come!” Boniface couldn’t feature in the match due to a hamstring injury that will see him out of action until the end of 2024.

Bayer Leverkusen will now aim to go all the way in the DFB-Pokal as defending the title represents their best opportunity to secure silverware this season.