„Switch flipped“: Neuer explains Bayern’s comeback mentality | OneFootball

FC Bayern took an important step in the Champions Leaguewith a 2-0 win against Union Saint-Gilloise – and Manuel Neuer had some clear words for him after the final whistle. The captain openly analyzed on DAZN why Munich only showed their true colors after the break and why the victory was nevertheless deserved in the end

As in recent matches, Bayern struggled in the first half. Neuer also made no secret of the fact that their performance before the break was not up to their own standards. The record champions lacked the necessary precision, particularly in their build-up play and transitional play. „It was not so easy for us in the first half,“ explained the 39-year-old, explaining that they did not play cleanly or quickly enough. Against a disciplined opponent like Union Saint-Gilloise in particular, small inconsistencies were enough to hamper the flow of the game

Second half as a turning point

After the break, however, FC Bayern looked like a different side. For Neuer, the key was above all the team’s mental reaction. „We flipped the switch and showed our face again,“ emphasised the goalkeeper. Suddenly, the intensity, running and decision-making were right – and with it the control of the game. From Neuer’s point of view, this change was precisely the reason why the victory was fully deserved in the end

The captain also made it clear how thin the line is at this level. Individual scenes could have turned the course of the game in a different direction early on. If Harry Kane had taken one of his first opportunities or if a set-piece had been successful, the necessary confidence might have been there sooner. Nevertheless, Neuer refused to let that be an excuse. Instead, he emphasised that in the Champions League, every opponent has the quality to mercilessly exploit weaknesses

Respect for the opponent – and focus on the fans

That is why it is all the more important to remain calm even in difficult phases. Union Saint-Gilloise had shown that they do not hand out gifts in the top flight. For Neuer, this once again underlines FC Bayern’s claim to consistently perform at the highest level over 90 minutes. He was all the more satisfied with the way the team ultimately turned the game around

In addition to the sporting analysis, Neuer also spoke about the special atmosphere in the Allianz Arena. Although the monster crowd in front of the south curve in the first half had a great impact on the game, the distance to the fans was noticeable. Even though the captain emphasised that situations without full stands were familiar from the coronavirus era, he made it clear how important the support from the stands is for the team and players. A sold-out stadium remains the benchmark – especially in the Champions League.