Bayern Munich: Key lessons from draw against Bayer Leverkusen
Bayern Munich dropped their first points in the Bundesliga this season on Friday. Bayer Leverkusen scored a late equaliser at Allianz Arena to share points with Bayern. It was a disappointing end to the game for Die Roten, but a draw fairly reflected on how the game played out between the two sides.
Harry Kane opened the scoring for Die Roten early in the game. Leverkusen regained control of the game after a chaotic start and eventually scored the equaliser through a beautiful freekick from Alex Grimaldo. Bayern regained the lead through Leon Goretzka late in the game, but Leverkusen once again scored the equaliser in added time through a penalty. Although it was a disappointing result, there are several key lessons learned from this game.
Leroy Sane finding consistency in performances
Harry Kane may have got on the scoresheet, but Leroy Sane was the most impressive performer in the attack for Bayern. The German forward started on the right flank and looked threatening going forward. Sane created two chances in the game and also looked crisp with his passing, completing 83% of attempted passes.
The German winger was not on the scoresheet, but he was Die Roten’s most threatening forward throughout 90 minutes. Sane is slowly becoming a much more consistent forward under Tuchel this season, not drifting in and out of the game. He has certainly cemented his place in the starting XI.
Bayern are conceding too many chances
Bayern has looked really good in the final third this season. However, the defensive issues still persist for the Bavarian club. They conceded open play xG of 1.29 against Leverkusen, which is a large number of chances at Allianz Arena. Leverkusen were unlucky on a few occasions as they missed some brilliant chances in the second half. They had 13 shots (5 on target) compared to Bayern’s 16 shots (9 on target).
The Bavarian club needs to tighten things at the back to become a resolute team. They cannot afford to give teams so many opportunities, especially at Allianz Arena. Tuchel needs to find the right balance in midfield and defense in terms of personnel to make sure Bayern becomes the best team defensively in Europe. Having a solid defensive base will help Rekordmeister do well in cup competitions this season.
Bayern Munich remains keen on hiring Max Eberl. dark. Next
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
Konrad Laimer set to be a big asset for the team this season
Konrad Laimer has enjoyed a good start to life at Bayern. Despite not starting games in the midfield this season, Laimer has shown how valuable a player he is going to be for the Bavarian. The Austrian midfielder started in the right-back position against Leverkusen after the impressive second-half display in the same position vs. Monchengladbach before the international break.
Laimer delivered a solid performance in the right-back role on Friday. He was tidy on the ball and won the majority of his duels. The 26-year-old swiftly moved into the defensive midfield position after Joshua Kimmich was substituted. The versatility of Laimer and his ability to consistently deliver 7/10 performances will make him a big asset to this team over the course of the season.