Three takeaways: Kompany’s Bayern must show a whole new side | OneFootball

FC Bayern passes the second cup round at 1. FC Köln. FCBinside provides three insights into the match.

Bayern initially struggled in Cologne, but eventually won decisively with 4:1. The game provided the following insights:

1. Kompany-Bayern must show entirely new qualities

Cologne achieved in the first half what no Bayern opponent had managed this season: The hosts were the better team against Vincent Kompany's squad. For the first time, Munich did not dominate the game, and Cologne had several good chances.

Neuer's substitute, Jonas Urbig, made a spectacular save from a shot by Cologne's Johannesson. Then Urbig had to defuse a header from Ache in his old hometown before Ache scored with a header to make it 1:0 for the hosts.

An unusual situation for Bayern fans this season: It was the first time the record champions were behind in this campaign. Additionally, FCB faced the hottest atmosphere of the season in the Cologne arena. The FC fans created a fantastic atmosphere and spurred their team forward.

In response to Cologne's lead, the Kompany-Bayern had to show entirely new qualities: holding their ground, fighting, chasing a deficit. And the team accepted the challenge. Kane and Co. showed their comeback qualities for the first time this season and eventually won the game decisively with 4:1.

So far, Bayern had always won with finesse this season. Showing they can also be gritty is crucial for decisive matches. Without a fight, no titles are won.

And fighting is even fun for his team, Kompany explained after the game: “Cologne brought everything needed for a cup match today. They were brave, but we also enjoyed the fight.”

2. Tah is the rock in the storm

Bayern's central defense has recently had rather quiet games – Munich's offensive stars usually keep the opponent busy. Against Cologne, it was different. Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah had to earn their pay this evening.

Upamecano had ups and downs, for example, he lost the aerial duel against goal scorer Ache. Tah, on the other hand, cleared everything. The national player provided a lot of calm in Bayern's defense with his prudent play. His tackling was outstanding – both on the ground and in the air. Tah commands and communicates a lot on the field. This benefits the entire team.

Photo: IMAGO

Tah's performances will also have a calming effect on Bayern's bosses. Because the outcome of contract negotiations with his defensive partner Upamecano is still open, and the Frenchman might even leave the club on a free transfer.

All the better that the spot next to him is already strongly occupied by Tah. Before his signing, Bayern was looking for a defensive leader, and now they have found him. Tah proved that once again impressively in Cologne.

3. Diaz again a chance waster

Luis Diaz's chance conversion has been a recurring topic in recent games. In Cologne, the Colombian once again missed clear scoring opportunities – even though he did score to make it 1:1. That he was clearly offside was another story of the game.

In the 8th minute, Diaz was surprised that an Olise cross reached him, and he only managed to touch the ball with his chest. A header would likely have gone in.

His opportunity in the 53rd minute was even clearer when he was skillfully set up by Kane and ran alone towards the Cologne goal, but he shot over. That should have been the 3:1.

Sports director Max Eberl defended Diaz after the game and praised his effort and intensity: “Now you can say: He had a big chance in Gladbach, he had a big chance today. But he keeps getting there. He makes those sprints over 60, 70 meters – forward, but also backward. And that's why he's an absolute asset for us,” he added.

Aside from his missed big chances, Diaz indeed played a good game in Cologne and was once again an active presence. The discussion about his finishing weakness is still a luxury problem with all the good results – until a missed chance by Diaz really decides a game.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.