Leverkusen rallies to defeat Cologne 3-2 in German Cup

Bayer Leverkusen staged a dramatic comeback to defeat FC Köln 3-2 in extra time, securing their place in the DFB-Pokal semi-finals. Falling behind 2-0 after goals from Damion Downs and Linton Maina, Leverkusen's Patrik Schick sparked the resurgence with a goal in the 61st minute, later equalizing in stoppage time to force extra time. Victor Boniface then scored the decisive goal in the 98th minute, completing the turnaround. Köln had a potential equalizer in the 112th minute disallowed for offside, ending their cup run despite a valiant effort. This victory brings Leverkusen one step closer to back-to-back cup triumphs, following their win over Bayern Munich in the previous round. The semi-final lineup will be completed in the coming weeks with other matches yet to be played.