MUNICH: Bayer Leverkusen scored a stoppage time penalty through Exequiel Palacios to rescue a 2-2 draw at Bayern Munich on Friday and snap their winning start.

The match lived up to its billing and the result left Bayern and Leverkusen level on 10 points at the top of the standings.

Harry Kane opened the scoring just seven minutes in, heading home from close range for his fourth goal in four Bundesliga games, but Leverkusen hit back shortly afterwards through Alex Grimaldo’s superb free-kick.

Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka looked to have secured Bayern the three points when he tapped in after fine early work from substitute Mathys Tel with four minutes remaining, but a VAR review in injury time showed Alphonso Davies had brought down Jonas Hofmann.

The Argentinian thundered in his spot kick to ensure his side remained unbeaten this season.

“I was happy with the start but after that Leverkusen were better. Then in the end of the first half we had some huge chances to score,” Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel told reporters.

“The result is fair. But if you take the lead in the 86th you should get the three points even if a draw would be the fair result. We struggled once more to maintain the level throughout, to remain stable. Our attacks became shorter and more hectic. Even at times when we struggle we have to be more compact.”

Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen remain ahead of reigning champions Bayern at the top of the table on goal difference. “A lot happened and for us a draw is good. We want to keep going,” Alonso said.

Published in Dawn, September 17th, 2023