The Bavarian giant has regained its former splendor for a magical evening. With a sparkling Harry Kane, Bayern crushed RB Leipzig and sent a strong message to their competitors. Has the Munich machine been restarted?
After several weeks of doubts and disappointment, Bayern Munich finally found their flamboyant football this Friday evening at the Allianz Arena. Facing RB Leipzig, declared contender for the title, Vincent Kompany's men produced a show of strength by winning 5-1. A resounding victory driven by the great return of Harry Kane and a rediscovered team.
Intense pressing and cascading goals
From the start of the match, Bayern Munich displayed a determination and intensity which completely stifled RB Leipzig. Relying on high and aggressive pressing, the Bavarians quickly took control of the game. This domination materialized in the 29th second with a goal from Jamal Musiala, his 10th goal of the season.. A perfect start, even if Leipzig was able to react immediately through Benjamin Sesko.
But tonight Bayern were hungry, very hungry. Carried by a melting public, Harry Kane's teammates continued to push. And in the 25th minute, Konrad Laimer gave his team the lead again with a superb volley off a serve from Michael Olise, again excellent in offensive animation. Joshua Kimmich, captain in the absence of Manuel Neuer, hit the nail on the head just before the break with a 25-meter missile. 3-1 at halftime, Bayern had done the hard part.
Harry Kane's winning return
The big attraction of the evening was obviously Harry Kane. The English striker returned after three weeks of absence following a right thigh injury. And the least we can say is that he wasted no time getting back into the swing of things. Very available, involved in pressing, he weighed on the Leipzig defense with his calls and his delivery quality.
Harry is an exceptional player, a leader. His return does us the greatest good. He brings so much to the team, on and off the field.
Thomas Müller, attacking midfielder for Bayern Munich
Even if he didn't score, Harry Kane's performance reassured everyone at Bayern. His agreement with his partners, notably Michael Olise and Leroy Sané, promises great things for the rest of the season. And his leadership will be invaluable in key moments.
A message sent to the competition
With this convincing victory, Bayern Munich sent a clear message to their direct competitors. After a difficult period marked by poor performances in the league and a premature elimination in the German Cup, the “Rekordmeister” intends to remain the team to beat in the Bundesliga.
- Bayern are 7 points ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, their runner-up, who host Friborg this Saturday.
- Leipzig, despite the slap received, remains 3rd at 9 points.
The title race is relaunched, and Bayern do not intend to let their crown slip away so easily. With a collective found and top individuals like Harry Kane or Jamal Musialathe Bavarians have all the cards in hand to achieve an 11th consecutive coronation.
A sober tribute to the victims of Magdeburg
Beyond the sporting result, this evening was also marked by emotion and contemplation. Indeed, a minute of silence was observed before kick-off in tribute to the victims of an attack perpetrated earlier in the day in Magdeburg. According to authorities, a car rammed into a crowd at a Christmas market, leaving at least two dead and many injured.
In this context, the traditional pre-match festivities were reduced to the strict minimum. A moment of sober, but necessary communion, which showed that football also knows how to step aside in the face of what is essential.
Bayern on the right track
With this benchmark victory, Bayern Munich reassured themselves and regained certainty. Carried by a Harry Kane in full possession of his means and a first-rate offensive armada, the Bavarians have the weapons to go far this season, in the league as well as in the Champions League.
The winter break which is looming at the end of the next two days will allow the team to recharge the batteries and prepare as best as possible for the second part of the season. With a successful transfer window last summer and a bloated workforce, Bayern appears more than ever as the favorite to win the Bundesliga and play the leading roles in Europe. The only downside is the knee injury to central defender Matthijs de Ligt who will miss the next few matches.
But with the depth of the bench available to Vincent Kompany, this should not penalize the Bavarian club too much. Bayern is back in the forefront, and all of German football can rejoice. Because a successful Bayern Munich is the guarantee of a high-level spectacle and a Bundesliga more attractive than ever. Looking forward to the sequel!
