Robert Lewandowski spared Bayern Munich’s blushes by equalising with the last kick of the game to earn a 1-1 draw at Hertha Berlin, but it did little to mask over a dreadful performance in the wake of their Champions League exploits.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side were irresistible when they obliterated Arsenal 5-1 in Europe’s elite competition on Wednesday, but they looked utterly devoid of ideas and craft before second-half substitute Lewandowski stabbed home from close range in the sixth minute of stoppage time to prevent a first Bundesliga loss since November.
Bayern were behind for much of the match and deservedly so, as Vedad Ibisevic punished poor defending to score Hertha’s first goal against the Bavarians since March 2014.
The visitors looked toothless for the entirety of the first half despite dictating the tempo for much it, and half-time did not inspire a significant improvement either.
Hertha coach Pal Dardai appeared to get his tactics spot on, as the hosts not only nullified Thomas Muller in attack, but also restricted service to the German and stifled Bayern’s creativity.
But the champions showed their character and spirit, as Lewandowski found the net for the 16th time this season amidst a goalmouth scramble deep into stoppage time to stun the hosts, who had seemingly done enough to wrap up a first win over the Bavarians since 2009.