Bayern Munich’s Streak Ends with Draw Against Union Berlin

Bayern Munich faced a reality check this past weekend during a challenging away match against Union Berlin at the Stadion An der Alten Forsterei. The Bavarian giants managed to secure a 2-2 draw, thanks to a last-minute equalizer from the in-form Harry Kane.

This result ended Bayern’s remarkable 16-game winning streak across all competitions since the beginning of the 2025-26 season, surpassing AC Milan’s previous record of 13 consecutive wins from the 1992-93 season. The outcome also prevented head coach Vincent Kompany from equaling Pep Guardiola’s record of 10 straight Bundesliga victories at the start of a season, as Kompany’s squad achieved nine wins before the draw against Steffen Baumgart’s team.

Despite not securing full points in Berlin, Bayern can take away several positives from the match. In a game where they have typically dominated, the encounter against Union Berlin showcased their resilience as they equalized twice, responding to goals from center-back Danilho Doekhi in both halves.

With Bayern trailing, they ramped up the pressure in search of an equalizer as the match approached halftime. In the 38th minute, Luis Diaz collected the ball on the left edge of the box after a clearance. After passing to Josip Stanisic, Diaz made a run into the area. Initially, it appeared Stanisic had overhit the pass, but Diaz slid to keep the ball in play. Under pressure from a defender, the Colombian’s deft touch allowed him to evade the challenge and unleash a spectacular shot into the top corner from a tight angle.

Shortly after scoring, Diaz missed a one-on-one opportunity against the Union Berlin goalkeeper. However, former Bayern player Lothar Matthaus expressed that the Colombian should not face criticism for this miss, highlighting his work ethic and ability to create scoring chances.

In a column for Sky, Matthaus remarked: “After 16 consecutive wins, FC Bayern only managed a draw against Union Berlin. Refocusing entirely on the Bundesliga after their outstanding Champions League victory in Paris was challenging. Their senses may not have been razor-sharp at the beginning, yet Bayern displayed strength by coming back from behind twice. Luis Diaz’s goal was world-class; he is a player who works hard for the team, scores, and creates opportunities. While he needs to be more clinical, his stunning strike makes him forgivable.”

The match marked a noteworthy week for the 28-year-old Diaz, who scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes to maintain Bayern’s perfect Champions League record. His goal against Union Berlin places him among the contenders for the season’s best goal.

Harry Kane expressed admiration for Diaz’s “special” strike, stating, “Incredible, to be honest. The way he kept the ball in play, got past his defender, and scored was truly a special goal. He has been delivering performances like that all season, but I believe that might be his best.”

Kompany acknowledged that Diaz could have added another goal but expressed satisfaction with his performance. “We truly needed that moment of brilliance from Lucho,” Kompany told reporters. “Of course, he could have scored again, but the quality we possess in this team is vital for achieving our goals this season. Three goals in one week is impressive for him.”

Looking ahead, Bayern will face Freiburg in their first match following the international break before traveling to the Emirates Stadium for a high-stakes clash with Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s side has emerged as a strong contender in the Premier League title race this season, showcasing both domestic dominance and impressive European form.

However, Bayern will be without their key winger for the trip to London—a significant setback for Kompany’s men. Diaz, who has recorded 11 goals and five assists this season, received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on PSG full-back Achraf Hakimi, resulting in an ankle injury for the Moroccan defender. Consequently, Diaz will serve a suspension and miss the opportunity to face his former rivals.