Bayern Munich overcome Borussia Dortmund 3-1 away from home

Bayern Munich and Jupp Heynckes traveled to Dortmund for their biggest test since the German rejoined the club. Despite getting too comfortable in the latter stages of the second half, the champions kept Dortmund at bay.

In the second meeting between these two sides for the season, Bayern Munich came away with a stronger scoreline. After recent poor form Borussia Dortmund, the Bavarians had to make the most of their timing. As a result, Bayern put in a mostly disciplined performance and came away with a solid 3-1 victory.

Not too long ago, with the dilemma Bayern found themselves in, this match could have been an even tougher task. However, with Jupp Heynckes taking over again, it looks like the German champions are gradually building momentum. The offense was clinical when they needed to be, and the defensive performance was generally positive. However, it’s frustrating not having a clean sheet to show for it after getting caught napping towards the end.

Dortmund motivated from kick-off

It’s a mistake to write off Borussia Dortmund at any moment, despite recent form. Surely, their disorganized displays as of late are indicators of problems going forward, but anything can happen in this sport. As expected, especially in der Klassiker, Dortmund started with high intensity and tempo in their play.

Dortmund have been criticized for their overly high-line and leaky defense, and with good reason. At the same time, with Bayern known to be most vulnerable in quick counters, it doesn’t take much for Dortmund to be dangerous. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a great early chance, only for Niklas Sule to come up brilliantly with a slide-tackle.

The deadlock was finally broken about 16 minutes in. Thiago picked out a wonderful ball for James Rodriguez to bring down with precision in the box. A quick and prompt pass to Arjen Robben allowed the Dutchman to to do what he does best, and arrow into Roman Burki’s goal with that magical left foot.

Robben gave an excellent show on the day. Despite being in his 30’s — the “old” age for athletes — he gave some of the most clinical chances for Bayern.

Bayern Munich comfortable through half-time

Throughout the rest of the half, Bayern looked dominant in large part. It wasn’t without a few scares, with Dortmund taking advantage of some slip ups. Javi Martinez nearly gave a goal away after lingering on the ball too long and giving way to Shinji Kagawa. David Alaba barely had enough time to at least chase back make the Japanese international uncomfortable.

Javi clearly has shown somewhat of a revival in finding form in defensive-midfield. At center-back, the Spaniard had become too slow to turn and chase down opponents. Being given some liberty from those responsibilities slightly higher up the pitch, shielding the back-line, he can make better use of his defensive skills. Despite this, Javi must now learn to think quicker now in midfield. Even stronger opposition will pounce faster on him if he doesn’t learn to react a bit faster.

20 minutes later, though, Bayern made life even harder for the home side. After an inspired Robben run down the right-flank, a clever lay-off to Joshua Kimmich led to a pin-point cross for an outrageous back-heeled goal from Robert Lewandowski. Good for the Pole especially, since up until that point, Lewandowski was shockingly wasteful in several favorable positions.

Bayern see out the rest of the match, but not without complications

To Dortmund’s credit, they started the second half similarly to the first. Regardless of the hole they were in, they pressed Bayern with energy. In retrospect, this also may have been part of the reason why they lost. By being so concerned with pressing the middle, they were careless in their transition back to defense.

The home side did still manage to squeeze out some notable scares for the Bayern defense. Christian Pulisic was a constant thorn in the defense’s side, namely Kimmich’s. Kimmich did pull off an excellent assist, but his one-on-one defending needs some refinement. It may sound harsh, but at least 3 times, Pulisic ate Kimmich alive. The Kid did contribute some key blocks and interceptions to defense, but his weakness against technical and pacey dribblers could prove costly going forward.

Eventually, the 3rd and killer blow for Dortmund did come. Alaba looped in what should have been a cross, but with Lewandowski just missing it, everyone in the box was left dumbfounded as it slipped into the net. Later on, the Austrian was taken off with what looked like a muscular problem. Alaba was able to walk off on his own power, so hopefully the change was precautionary.

It would be a shame for Alaba to be sidelined again just after finding his form. He was solid in Dortmund and balanced his offensive and defensive game well. With just a few minutes left, Pulisic inspired Marc Bartra’s beautifully curled goal with another bit of magic. Despite being double-marked, he exposed Kimmich yet again as well as Robben on the line.

Bayern can go into the break comfortable

Defensively, it’s a shame. Sven Ulreich was strong and confident and surely deserved a clean sheet for his efforts. The back-line in general, with Mats Hummels particularly, looked composed. But that’s what happens when a team gets too comfortable with the scoreboard.

Next: Bayern Munich dominate Dortmund -- Player grades

All-in-all, Bayern Munich are making some positive progress as the season begins to thicken with competition. Jupp Heynckes is reminding the squad of their more disciplined displays and be more consistent. With the international break ahead, hopefully the squad returns unscathed and ready for the rest of the hinrunde.