Bayern Munich faced off against RB Leipzig in the 2026 Telekom Cup as both teams continue to prepare for the start of the new Bundesliga season, which is scheduled to kick off on August 28. Martin Demichelis and Vincent Kompany’s men sized each other up before giving their best effort – the match feeling more like a league fixture than a pre-season friendly.
Despite losing an early lead to the hosts, Leipzig found a way past Bayern’s defence. However, Kompany’s substitutes proved difficult to deal with and saw the game go deservedly in Bayern’s favor before the final whistle. The home crowd was enjoyed by a mix of young and old with many positive signals. Without further ado, here are the prizes for the match.
Shirt change: Yohan Bakayoko
Demichelis’ move to bring in Johan Bakioko added the vitality that Leipzig was missing. The Belgian striker introduced an element of chaos that revealed one of Bayern’s biggest weaknesses. The area behind the midfield and in front of the back line is the area where the attackers confused the Bavarian team several times last season. In this match too, Bakayoko’s movement in that area caused a lot of problems for Kompany’s men.
After the restart, Leipzig had four shots in less than seven minutes and scored the decisive equaliser. Bakayoko alone struck three times. Neuer had to make two great saves while the third goal was saved by the post. The Belgian built momentum that eventually led to Brajan Gruda’s goal in the 52nd minute.
The veteran was called into action on crucial occasions. As mentioned, Demichelis’ team broke apart several times in the opening minutes of the second half. Bakayoko’s shots almost turned the match upside down had it not been for Neuer’s brilliant saves. The first was a diving attempt to keep the ball from going into the top of the goal. The second was another dive, this time to the ground to deliver a double punch. Both better saves, and the difference between winning the Telekom Cup 3-1 and drawing or worse losing the tie.
Football God: Joshua Kimmich
The German captain was once again immaculate in getting the basics down in the middle of the park. He was the glue that held the whole team together. Working like an invisible hand, Kimmich’s ability to rinse and repeat simple things makes him a serial Fußballgott Award winner. His 91 percent passing accuracy coupled with eight recoveries is exceptional for many midfielders. But for Kimmich, it’s just another day at the office.
Bomber: Nathaniel Brown
The new player in the group put in an impressive display against one of the strongest teams in the Bundesliga. Despite not having the pace or physicality of Alphonso Davies, Brown was adept at clearing the ball and did not shy away from duels. His relationship with Luis Diaz will be an interesting prospect to watch out for this season. Aleksandar Pavlovic made a stunning through ball after spotting Brown’s run. The pass itself was stunning, but a finishing touch from the wing from Brown gave a glimpse of the left-back’s composure.
Master of the Match: Luis Diaz
Every time Bayern has their back against the wall, Luis Diaz stands at the top to change the circumstances. He is a true fighter and his spirit to come back from any situation truly inspires any teammate lucky enough to share a locker room with him. His first goal was brilliant, and there’s no other reason why. The shot home from the rebound was beautiful. But his reaction and body language after Leipzig scored the equalizer truly embodies the qualities that Lucio brings to his team. Immediately he was seen running towards defenders trying to beat two opponents at once with his eye always on goal. He had six passes in the final third by tackling and intercepting along the way. Lucio set the tone and the substitutes completed the job by restoring the lead and deciding the match in favor of the Bavarian team.
The young man was a lightning strike on Bayern Munich’s right wing. Along with Diaz and Brown, Binder carried the offensive load for his team. A brilliant dribbler who could be confused with Lennart Karl in terms of playing style, physicality and position, Bender created the opening chance which ended with a curling shot from Luis Diaz.
The Moroccan made his debut in Bayern colors at the Allianz Arena. The powerful striker who can move at a fast pace makes the difference for his team. Not only was Saibari’s off-the-ball movement extremely annoying for Leipzig’s defenders, but his ball-handling skills and ability to elude his markers created the opening needed to help Jamal Musiala score the third goal.
The German international’s brightest point was his goal. Quickly shooting, the 22-year-old took advantage of what little was available and fired a shot into the corner of Martin Vandervoordt’s goal. However, Musiala was soon forced to leave the field in what appeared to be a precautionary move by Bayern’s medical staff.
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