Bayern hands Eintracht Frankfurt their first Bundesliga defeat of 2025

Bayern Munich took another significant step toward their 34th national title with a dominant 4-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt at the Allianz Arena on Sunday.

It was a result that sent a clear message to their rivals, as Thomas Tuchel’s side showed their attacking firepower and defensive solidity in a commanding performance. Meanwhile, for Eintracht Frankfurt, it was a reality check ahead of their upcoming Europa League clash against Ajax, as they suffered their first Bundesliga defeat of the calendar year.

Under head coach Dino Toppmöller, Eintracht Frankfurt has been one of the most consistent teams in the Bundesliga this season. Sitting comfortably in third place, Die Adler have impressed with their disciplined defensive structure and efficient attacking play. Their European ambitions remain alive, as they are preparing to take on Ajax in the Round of 16 of the Europa League next month. However, their positive momentum was halted as they traveled to Munich, facing a Bayern side determined to reclaim their Bundesliga crown from Bayer Leverkusen.

From the outset, Bayern set the tempo, asserting control in possession and pushing Frankfurt deep into their half. Despite Eintracht's strong defensive reputation, it quickly became apparent that they were struggling to handle Bayern’s relentless attacking pressure. The reigning champions created several early chances, with Leroy Sané and Jamal Musiala both testing Kevin Trapp, but the visitors managed to hold firm in the opening stages.

Eintracht had proven earlier this season that they could trouble Bayern, having held them to a thrilling 3-3 draw in Frankfurt back in October. On that occasion, they exploited defensive vulnerabilities and managed to stay toe-to-toe with the German giants. However, in Munich, it was a different story. Bayern looked sharper, more aggressive, and fully focused on securing the three points.

The breakthrough finally arrived just before halftime, in stoppage time, as Bayern’s persistence paid off. Leroy Sané delivered a perfectly timed pass to Michael Olise, who was well positioned inside the box. The French winger, known for his composure and technical ability, calmly slotted the ball past Trapp to give Bayern a deserved 1-0 lead at the break. The timing of the goal was a huge blow for Eintracht, who had fought valiantly for the first 45 minutes but now found themselves chasing the game.

After the interval, Bayern wasted little time in doubling their advantage. In the 62nd minute, Hiroki Ito made his mark in only his second Bundesliga appearance for the club. The Japanese defender, who had previously been linked with Ajax, had recently returned from a serious injury and was eager to prove his worth. Rising above his marker from a corner kick, Ito powered a header past Trapp, celebrating his first goal in Bayern colors. His teammates rushed to congratulate him, recognizing not only the importance of the goal but also the significance of his personal journey back to full fitness.

With a 2-0 lead, Bayern remained in full control. Eintracht struggled to create any meaningful chances, as Bayern’s midfield trio dominated possession and denied them space. The introduction of Harry Kane as a substitute only added to Frankfurt’s woes. The Bundesliga’s top scorer had picked up a minor injury in Bayern’s Champions League clash against Celtic but was fit enough to make an impact off the bench. His presence further unsettled the Eintracht defense, and Bayern capitalized on their opponents’ fatigue.

In the closing stages, Bayern turned their comfortable lead into a rout. In the 84th minute, Jamal Musiala showcased his dazzling footwork, weaving through the Frankfurt defense before firing a precise shot into the bottom corner. It was a moment of individual brilliance from the young German international, highlighting why he is regarded as one of the most exciting talents in world football.

As the match entered stoppage time, Serge Gnabry added the finishing touch with Bayern’s fourth goal of the evening. Exploiting a defensive lapse, the winger latched onto a through ball before calmly placing his shot beyond Trapp, putting the game well beyond doubt.

Bayern stays on course for the title

With this resounding 4-0 victory, Bayern Munich reaffirmed their dominance in the Bundesliga, maintaining their eight-point lead over closest challengers Bayer Leverkusen. While the title race is far from over, Bayern’s performance sent a warning to their rivals that they remain the team to beat.

For Eintracht Frankfurt, the defeat serves as a reminder of the gap that still exists between them and Germany’s elite. While they remain in third place, they now sit eight points behind Leverkusen, and their focus will need to shift quickly to their upcoming fixtures. With their crucial Europa League tie against Ajax on the horizon, Toppmöller’s squad must regroup and find a way to bounce back from this heavy loss.

The match highlighted Bayern’s depth and quality, with contributions from both established stars and emerging talents. With players like Sané, Musiala, and Olise shining in attack and defensive reinforcements like Ito stepping up, Bayern looks well-equipped for the challenges ahead. As they continue their pursuit of yet another Bundesliga title, performances like this suggest they are still the team to beat in German football.