DFB-Pokal: Bayern Munich, Paderborn reach the semi-finals

Bayern Munich defeat Bayer Leverkusen after penalty shootout

Berlin, April 9 (IANS) Defending champions Bayern Munich overcame Bayer Leverkusen while third division side Paderborn beat Borussia Monchengladbach in the German Cup quarter-finals to reach the last four stage.

Both sides staged a contested encounter for over 120 minutes but titleholders Bayern Munich set the course for their title defence as goalkeeper Manuel Neuer's save against midfielder Josip Drmic proved to be crucial at the penalty shootout on Wednesday, reports Xinhua.

Leverkusen dominated the opening period but neither forward Stefan Kiessling nor Karim Bellarabi were able to turn their chances into a tangible reward.

Nevertheless, Bayern had the best chance to open the scoring but Leverkusen's keeper Bernd Leno denied forward Thomas Mueller before the break. The "Bavarians" finally overcame Leno after the restart but striker Robert Lewandowski's headed goal was ruled out due to a previous foul play.

As the match progressed both goalkeepers were in the thick of things as Bellarabi tested Neuer from central position before Leno denied Lewandowski at the other end of the pitch.

Just before the overtime medio Julian Brandt came close to snatch a late win but Bayern's right back Rafinha cleared from the goal line.

In the extra time both sides exchanged offensive actions without making use of the golden opportunities by Bayern's Juan Bernat and Leverkusen's Brandt.

After goalless 120 minutes, Bayern showed nerves of steel at the penalty shootout as Neuer saved Drmic's shot before winger Thiago Alcantara rounded off the penalties with the fifth goal to secure the German giants a berth in the final four.

In another match, Paderborn progressed into the German Cup semi-finals beating Monchengladbach 5-4 on penalties.