Completed: Bayern Munich secured a Bundesliga away victory over 1. FC Köln on January 14, 2026, finishing the first half of the 2025–26 season with a 3–1 scoreline in Cologne, Germany. The match took place at the RheinEnergieStadion as part of Matchday 17 of the German top division. This result propelled Bayern to the top of the league standings with an expanded lead.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 41st minute through Linton Maina’s solo effort, giving Köln a surprise lead late in the first half. Bayern responded immediately, with Serge Gnabry converting in stoppage time before halftime to level the score at 1–1.

In the second half, Bayern took the lead when defender Kim Min-jae headed in a goal in the 71st minute, putting the visitors ahead 2–1. Later, teenager Lennart Karl sealed the final 3–1 result with a goal in the 84th minute, providing Bayern with a decisive advantage.

Officials temporarily halted play early in the match due to heavy pyrotechnic smoke on the pitch, which briefly obscured visibility before the game resumed once conditions cleared.

The victory ensured Bayern Munich concluded the first half of their season with a record number of points (47) and an outstanding goal difference (+53), surpassing previous Bundesliga milestones. The win also extended Bayern’s lead at the top of the table to 11 points over second-place Borussia Dortmund.

Bayern Munich now prepares for upcoming league and European fixtures, while 1. FC Köln looks ahead to its next match after this Bundesliga defeat.

Sources
Bayern beat Cologne 3-1 to set Bundesliga record at halfway mark – Reuters – Reuters
Bayern come from behind to beat Köln in Bundesliga – FC Bayern official match report – FC Bayern