Bundesliga Controversies: Fan Misconduct and Refereeing Decisions Under Scrutiny

A fan's lighter-throwing incident and contentious penalty calls dominate discussions in German football this week.

Union Berlin faces backlash after a fan threw a lighter at VfL Bochum's goalkeeper Patrick Drewes during a December match, leading to Bochum being awarded three points by the DFB's sports court.
Former footballer Mario Basler criticized Drewes' reaction to the incident, calling it exaggerated, while also condemning the fan's action as unacceptable.
Union Berlin's president Dirk Zingler labeled the DFB's decision as a 'scandal' and announced plans to appeal, arguing the match should be replayed if officiating errors were made.
Referee Felix Zwayer's penalty decision in Bayern Munich's 1-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach sparked debate, with Gladbach officials questioning the validity of the call and alleging inconsistent officiating.
Bayern Munich secured their 27th Herbstmeisterschaft (winter championship) with Harry Kane scoring the decisive penalty, marking his 15th goal of the season.