BERLIN — Bayern Munich responded emphatically to an early deficit as they demolished RB Leipzig 5-1 on Saturday, January 17, sending a clear message at the top of the Bundesliga. Leipzig initially seized control, taking the lead in the 20th minute through Romulo Cardoso, who met David Raum’s cross to finish clinically.

The hosts continued to threaten, hitting the woodwork and forcing several saves, but they could not extend the advantage. That failure proved costly as Bayern regrouped during halftime. The German champions returned with urgency and purpose in the second half, ready to turn the game around.

Serge Gnabry drew Bayern level five minutes after the restart, finishing from a tight angle after a turnover high up the pitch. The equalizer shifted momentum decisively, and Bayern began to control possession and dictating play across the field.

Bayern press and secure commanding win

Harry Kane put Bayern ahead in the 67th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse and scoring his 21st league goal of the season. Leipzig struggled to respond as Bayern’s attacking and defensive cohesion intensified.

Jonathan Tah headed in Bayern’s third goal from a corner eight minutes from time. Aleksandar Pavlovic added a fourth in the 85th minute, followed by Michael Olise’s fifth three minutes later, completing a comprehensive victory.

Bayern has now scored 11 goals across their two league encounters with Leipzig this season. Vincent Kompany’s side remains 11 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, while Leipzig drops from third to fourth. “In the second half we scored the goals and defended very well,” said Gnabry. “We went into the second half with that belief and in the end, we were rewarded.”

Other Bundesliga action

Borussia Dortmund overcame bottom-side St Pauli 3-2, with Emre Can scoring the winner after Dortmund lost a two-goal lead. Hoffenheim moved up to third by edging Bayer Leverkusen 1-0, courtesy of Wouter Burger’s early goal.

Wolfsburg drew 1-1 with relegation-threatened Heidenheim, while Cologne came from behind to beat Mainz 2-1. Hamburg and Borussia Monchengladbach played out a goalless draw, completing the latest round of Bundesliga action.