Bayern battle to victory in Augsburg | OneFootball

Bayern Munich overcome stubborn Augsburg to maintain title charge

Harry Kane was on target once more as Bayern Munich took another step towards claiming the 2024/25 Bundesliga title with a come-from-behind 3-1 win at neighbours Augsburg.

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Augsburg 1-3 Bayern MunichGoals: 1-0 Giannoulis 30' (assist: Gouweleeuw), 1-1 Musiala 42', 1-2 Kane 60' (assist: Olise), 1-3 Matsime (o.g. 90'+3)Red card: Zesiger 59'

In a crucial match for their title aspirations, Bayern faced a stern test against an in-form Augsburg side at the WWK Arena. The away side the game with a six-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga, while Augsburg were riding high on an impressive 11-match unbeaten streak, during which they had conceded only three goals. Despite missing several key players due to injuries, including Manuel Neuer and Alphonso Davies, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany expressed confidence in his team's attacking prowess against one of the league's most resolute defences.

Augsburg players celebrate their surprise opening goal against Bayern Munich. (IMAGO/Merk)

Augsburg stun Bayern with early lead

The match began with Bayern asserting their dominance, controlling possession and creating early chances. However, it was Augsburg who struck first, stunning the visitors in the 30th minute. Dimitrios Giannoulis capitalised on a quickly taken free-kick, cutting inside and rifling a powerful shot into the roof of the net. The goal, Giannoulis' first in the Bundesliga, sent shockwaves through the Bayern ranks and ignited the home crowd.

The referee shows a red card to Augsburg's Cédric Zesiger, a pivotal moment that changed the course of the match. (Sebastian Widmann)

Musiala equalises before half-time

Bayern's response was swift and determined. Jamal Musiala, who had been a constant threat throughout the first half, found the equaliser in the 42nd minute. The young German international showcased his exceptional skill, retaining possession despite being surrounded by three defenders before firing an unstoppable shot past Finn Dahmen.

Jamal Musiala is helped off the pitch after sustaining an injury early in the second half. (IMAGO/Michael Weber IMAGEPOWER)

Red card turns the tide

The second half began with both teams pushing for the advantage, but a crucial moment in the 59th minute changed the complexion of the match entirely. Augsburg's Cédric Zesiger brought down Kane as the striker threatened to break through on goal. Referee Dr. Matthias Jöllenbeck sent the defender off, reducing Augsburg to 10 men and handing Bayern a significant numerical advantage.

Kane capitalises on Bayern's advantage

Bayern wasted no time in making their extra man count. Just a minute after the red card, Kane put the visitors ahead. A cleverly worked free-kick saw Joshua Kimmich find Michael Olise, whose pinpoint cross was met by Kane's precise header. The goal was Kane's 23rd of the Bundesliga season, further cementing his status as Bayern's talisman.

Musiala injury mars Bayern's victory

Despite their lead, it wasn't all positive for Bayern. In the 54th minute, Musiala pulled up with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. The sight of the talented midfielder being helped off the pitch by medical staff was a concerning one for Bayern fans and Kompany alike, especially with crucial Champions League and Der Klassiker fixtures on the horizon. Thomas Müller was brought on as his replacement, tasked with seeing out the victory.

Late own goal seals Bayern's win

As the match entered its final stages, Bayern's control of the game became more pronounced. Their dominance was reflected in the statistics, with Kompany's side ending the match with 64 percent possession and 20 shots to Augsburg's six. The victory was ultimately sealed in stoppage time when Augsburg's Chrislain Matsima inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, making it 3-1 to Bayern and putting the result beyond doubt.

Player of the Match: Leroy Sané

Sané emerged as the standout performer in this crucial victory for Bayern. The German winger was a constant menace to the Augsburg defence, creating numerous chances and playing a pivotal role in Bayern's attacking play. Sané's influence was evident in the build-up to Musiala's equaliser, where his skill and vision carved open the Augsburg backline. Throughout the match, he recorded the highest number of shots (seven) and reached a top speed of 34.22 km/h, the fastest of any player on the pitch. His relentless pressing and ability to stretch the defence were crucial in Bayern's dominance, particularly after Augsburg's red card.

Bundesliga Match FactsxGoals: Augsburg 0.42 - Bayern 2.52Fastest player: Leroy Sané (Bayern), 34.22 km/hLowest goal probability: 1-0 by Dimitrios Giannoulis (Augsburg), 12 percentMost pressed player: Leroy Sané (Bayern), 23 times under pressurePass efficiency: Michael Olise (Bayern), +3.2

Fantasy Heroes: Michael Olise (Bayern, 222 Points), Harry Kane (Bayern, 216 Points), Leroy Sané (Bayern, 199 Points)

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