Bayern Munich squandered a two-goal lead to slump to a shock 3-2 loss at Heidenheim on Saturday that all but dashed the Bavarians’ slim Bundesliga title hopes with six games left to play.
Tim Kleindienst completed a memorable comeback for the hosts in the 79th minute, leaving Bayern 16 points behind leaders Bayer Leverkusen, who can seal their first title after next week’s matches.
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The Bavarians, who take on Arsenal next week in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg, have now lost their last two league matches with coach Thomas Tuchel set to leave at the end of the season.
They are second on 60 points, with Bayer Leverkusen on 76. Third-placed VfB Stuttgart, who are in action at Borussia Dortmund later on Saturday, are on 57.
Bayern, winners of the last 11 consecutive league titles looked to be cruising to a comfortable win after first half goals from Harry Kane and Serge Gnabry. Tuchel had demanded a reaction following last week’s loss to Borussia Dortmund.
But the hosts struck back with two goals in two minutes –from Kevin Sessa and Kleindienst — to stun Thomas Tuchel’s team. Kleindienst then made sure of the three points and Bayern’s second straight league loss.
Heidenheim comfortably held off any Bayern attack and gradually built up pressure. They were rewarded when Kleindienst completed a counter attack for the club’s most memorable win.
Heidenheim are the first newly promoted club in Bundesliga history to beat Bayern after coming from two goals behind abd are 10th with 33 points.