Bayern Munich scrape by DFB Pokal win against Drochtersen/Assel
Reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich scrape by a gritty 1-0 win over Regionalliga side Drochtersen/Assel.
Bayern Munich certainly could have made a better start to their 2018-19 DFB Pokal campaign. The Bavarians narrowly defeated Regionalliga (Germany’s fourth division) side SV Drochtersen/Assel.
With pretty much a full strength lineup (if you can consider a lineup with both Ribery and Robben starting “full strength” — but that argument is for another day), Bayern were expected to smash their lower league opponents, who were thrilled at the opportunity to even face Germany’s biggest club.
Drochtersen/Assel, however, made things difficult for their visitors. Bayern struggled to make any impact on the game in the first half, thanks to their host’s all-out, organized defending. The Bavarians hardly had a shot on target in the opening 45 minutes.
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The only threatening attack in the first half, in fact, came from Drocthersen/Assel. A lax clearance from Javi Martinez in the 33rd minute led to a good chance for the hosts, but Manuel Neuer was there to deny Florian Nagel’s relatively tame attempt.
The second half began with much of the same from both sides. Bayern held the lion’s share of possession, but their opponents looked a much more motivated unit. The introductions of Leon Goretzka and Kingsley Coman for Mats Hummels and Arjen Robben brought a much needed injection of youthful energy to both the attack and midfield.
Goretzka, in particular, looked lively and motivated as soon as he joined the pitch. The young German was arguably Bayern’s best performer on the day — even though that isn’t saying much. Nevertheless, he had a direct hand in giving his new club their game-winning goal.
Goretzka received a pass from Franck Ribery at the top of the box and drove a low, powerful shot at goal. Robert Lewandowski was quick to redirect the 23-year-old’s shot into the back of the net. If there is any positive takeaway from this match, it’s Goretzka’s impressive display. More games like this and he’ll have a strong argument to be a regular starter this season.
Nothing much of note occurred after Lewandowski’s goal, much akin to the 82 minutes that preceded it. Bayern looked poor, lack for motivation or any positive thinking, defeating a team 1-0 when they easily could have and should have one by several more goals.
dark. Next. Sebastian Rudy to RB Leipzig would be a great move for all involved
The Bavarians kick off their Bundesliga season on Friday with a big match against Hoffenheim. Bayern will need to step up their game big time before hosting Julian Nagelsmann’s men, or risk suffering another embarrassing result.