Bayern Munich lose, Hertha Berlin relegated from Bundesliga

BERLIN: Bayern Munich squandered their lead on Saturday as Leipzig came from behind to win 3-1 in the Bundesliga, giving Borussia Dortmund the chance to move top going into the final weekend. Bayern just needed to win their last two games to be sure of claiming their record-extending 11th consecutive title, but Leipzig’s shock win in Munich handed Dortmund the initiative. Dortmund faces Augsburg away on Sunday.

If they win that game, and their final game at home to Mainz next weekend, Dortmund would end Bayern’s 10-year reign as German champion. It had started so well for the Bavarian powerhouse, which dominated the opening half hour against the cautious visitors. Thomas Müller – making his second consecutive start for Bayern – set up Serge Gnabry for the opener in the 25th minute.

But Leipzig responded with three good chances in a row in the 34th, 35th and 36th. Yann Sommer responded with three good saves. Konrad Laimer, who is reportedly set to join Bayern next season, scored a deserved equalizer in the 64th, then Christopher Nkunku scored from the penalty spot in the 76th after he was fouled in the area by compatriot Benjamin Pavard.

Dominik Szoboszlai sealed it with another penalty in the 85th after Noussair Mazraoui was penalized for handball. Leipzig consolidated third place and secured their Champions League qualification place for next season. Bayern face Cologne away for their final game and must now also hope for a Dortmund slip-up.

HERTHA RELEGATED Hertha Berlin were relegated from the Bundesliga after conceding in the fourth minute of injury time to draw with Bochum 1-1. Former Union Berlin defender Keven Schlotterbeck headed the goal that sent Hertha down to the second division. It’s Hertha’s seventh