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BERLIN. — Holders Bayern Munich struck either side of the break to beat second division Eintracht Braunschweig 2-0 on Wednesday and advance to the German Cup quarter-finals. A dazzling free-kick by David Alaba on the stroke of half-time and Mario Goetze’s solo effort in the 57th minute were enough for Bayern, who were in control but never needed to hit top form against their toothless visitors.

The Bavarians, top of the German Bundesliga and chasing another domestic double, were up against a gutsy Braunschweig defence, with winger Franck Ribery frustrated in the first half by Braunschweig’s physical play.

Arjen Robben, however, was lucky to be awarded a foul in the 45th minute with minimal contact by the Braunschweig player but it mattered little for Austria international Alaba, who unleashed a ferocious free-kick into the top corner.

Goetze killed off Braunschweig hopes of a comeback early in the second half before Bayern stepped off the gas, content to protect their lead.

Runaway third division leaders Arminia Bielefeld shocked in-form Bundesliga club Werder Bremen 3-1 with two goals from former German youth international Manuel Junglas to seal the biggest upset so far in the German Cup round of 16. — AFP.