Bayern Munich – Barcelona: Bayern Strike After Tough First Half (2-0)

Barcelona’s high pressing earned them the right to play most of the game in Bayern’s side of the pitch in the first half. However, two quick Bayern goals after half-time changed the momentum and the home side were able to win 2-0 with a fairly comfortable second half.
Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

Barcelona’s record in their last few meetings against Bayern Munich prior to this match was nothing short of abysmal. Last year’s group stage saw them beaten 3-0 home and away, while the 8-2 humiliation in the knockout stage the year before still lives in the memory. 

Robert Lewandowski, who scored twice at the Camp Nou last season, now lined up in a Barcelona shirt against his former club. Raphinha and Ousmane Dembélé flanked him as the wingers in Barcelona’s 4-3-3 shape, while Gavi and Pedri played ahead of Sergio Busquets in midfield. Jules Koundé started at right back in the back four alongside Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen and Marcos Alonso. 

Bayern impressed last week in their victory against Inter. Once again, they lined up in a nominal 4-2-3-1 shape, with Benjamin Pavard, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Hernández and Alphonso Davies in the back four. Marcel Sabitzer and Joshua Kimmich were in the double pivot, while Leroy . . .