Serge Gnabry and Teen Sensation Lennart Karl Shine at RheinEnergieStadion
Bayern Munich continued their relentless march toward another Bundesliga title with a hard-fought 3-1 comeback victory over FC Cologne. Despite a sluggish start, Vincent Kompany’s men showed why they are the overwhelming favorites this season, extending their unbeaten streak to 17 matches (15 wins, 2 draws).
First-Half Drama: Maina Stuns the Leaders
The match began with a shock as Cologne took the lead in the 41st minute. Following a rare defensive lapse from Bayern, Linton Maina unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box to make it 1-0.
The first half was marred by several interruptions, including pyrotechnics from the home fans, leading to significant stoppage time. It was in the 45+5th minute that Serge Gnabry found the equalizer, converting a pinpoint assist from Michael Olise to shift the momentum just before the break.
The Breakdown: Bayern’s Second-Half Dominance
Bayern emerged for the second half with over 70% possession, pinning Cologne into their own defensive third. The breakthrough came in the 71st minute:
- The Lead: Min-jae Kim rose highest to power home a header from a corner.
- The Seal: 17-year-old prodigy Lennart Karl confirmed the three points in the 84th minute, continuing his meteoric rise as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
YES! Auswärtssieg. Wir bleiben UNGESCHLAGEN in der Bundesliga. 😎 pic.twitter.com/4rhWqMrOCW
— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) January 14, 2026
Cologne’s Resilient Display Despite Defeat
Although Cologne has now gone eight games without a win, their performance against the “Rekordmeister” was praised for its organization. Even with Harry Kane and Luis Díaz leading the line, Bayern found it difficult to break through a stubborn defense until the final stages.
The result leaves Bayern at the top with 47 points and a staggering +51 goal difference, while Cologne remains in 11th place, still searching for a way to break their winless slump.
