Bayern Munich's men's and women's football teams have both secured the Bundesliga title with a week to spare in April, reached the German Cup final, and advanced to the Champions League semifinals, keeping alive the prospect of an unprecedented 'double treble'.
The women's team sealed their fifth title in six seasons with a 3-2 win at Union Berlin, having won 21 and drawn one of 22 league games. Captain Giulia Gwinn said: 'It was a really great evening that leaves us wanting more. We've left our mark on every game in a dominant way.'
Sporting director Max Eberl described the achievement as 'extraordinary' and highlighted club unity. 'I'm in constant contact with Bianca Rech [director of the women's side], which shows how strong FC Bayern is. The fact that the treble is possible for both is fun and exciting,' he said.
Men's coach Vincent Kompany has been vocal in supporting the women's team. 'My family has been watching women's football for a long time. We've been to Bayern women's matches three or four times. It's fun to watch,' he said.
The women's team faces Barcelona in the Champions League semifinals, a side that has won three of the last five titles and beat Bayern 7-1 in the group stage. Forward Klara Bühl said: 'Barcelona were always a step ahead in mental toughness and speed. The important thing is that we learned from it and now know what to expect.'
The first leg at the Allianz Arena has sold 20,000 tickets. Swedish defender Magdalena Eriksson said: 'Champions League nights at the Allianz Arena always have a very special atmosphere. The energy from the stands will be crucial.'
Bayern's women have never won the Champions League, with the club historically underinvesting in the women's team. Germany's most recognizable female footballer, Alexandra Popp, has called on men's clubs to do more: 'They could do much more and should have professionalized faster.'
The men's team faces Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals, with the winner likely to face Arsenal or Atletico Madrid in the final on May 30 in Budapest.
Source: www.dw.com