Union's women endure a stark defeat to Bayern in season opener

On 21 August 2026, Union Berlin’s women’s team opened their Frauen‑Bundesliga campaign with a 1‑4 loss to defending champions Bayern Munich at the An der Alten Försterei, in front of nearly 17,000 spectators. The match, played on Friday evening, marked a stark start to the season for the Berlin side.

Early promise in the first half

The opening half suggested an eye‑level contest. Union’s Eileen Campbell broke away alone and half‑right of Bayern’s goalkeeper Ena Mahmutovic, but her shot from about ten metres drifted just wide of the post. Seven minutes later, left‑back Tomke Schneider forced a solid save with a powerful long‑range effort.

Bayern seized the lead in the 18th minute when Clara Bühl curled a free‑kick from the edge of the box into the top corner, leaving Union goalkeeper Cara Bösl helpless. Despite the early goal, Union continued to press, and the half‑time score stood at 1‑0.

Bayern pull ahead in the second half

Just after the break, Pernille Harder doubled Bayern’s advantage in the 47th minute, converting a sloppy Berlin pass with a cool finish from 16 metres. Six minutes later, Glodis Viggosdottir added a third after a set‑piece, striking the ball while on the ground.

Union responded in the 79th minute when substitute Nele Bauereisen headed home a counter‑attack finish, bringing the score to 3‑1. The final blow came in the 90th minute as Sophie Proost netted Bayern’s fourth goal on a swift counter, sealing the defeat.

Key performers and line‑up

New head coach Marie‑Louise Eta started four recent signings: right‑back Jill Janssens, midfielders Jella Veit and Lisanne Gräwe, and striker Leela Egli, integrating them into her first‑team eleven. Union also featured Eileen Campbell, Tomke Schneider and the defensive trio, while Bayern relied on the experience of Clara Bühl, Pernille Harder, Glodis Viggosdottir and Sophie Proost.

The Berlin crowd of almost 17,000 witnessed a spirited Union side that, despite the clear defeat, remained competitive for large periods, pressing aggressively and creating several chances against the high‑flying Bayern.