In a thrilling DFB-Pokal quarterfinal match, Bayer Leverkusen showcased resilience by coming from behind to defeat 1.FC Köln with a score of 3-2. Leverkusen, initially trailing 0-2, executed a remarkable turnaround thanks to goals from Jeremie Frimpong, Adam Hlozek, and Victor Boniface. Hlozek’s equalizer came in the 75th minute, followed by Boniface’s decisive goal just three minutes later. This match was not without controversy, as it was momentarily halted due to excessive pyrotechnics by fans, described as ‘Pyro-Wahnsinn’ or ‘Pyro Madness.’ The game was paused for approximately 10 minutes because of smoke covering the pitch, forcing the referee to act decisively to ensure player safety and restore order before play resumed. Leverkusen’s head coach, Xabi Alonso, expressed pride in his team’s fighting spirit, stating, ‘We showed great character, and the players deserve all the credit for turning the game around.’ Despite their defeat, 1.FC Köln’s manager, Steffen Baumgart, lamented, ‘We had the game in our hands but failed to finish it off. Now we must learn from these mistakes.’ This victory propels Leverkusen into the DFB-Pokal semifinals, where they aim to continue their pursuit of silverware this season.
Bayer Leverkusen Stages Dramatic Comeback to Eliminate 1.FC Köln in DFB-Pokal Quarterfinals
