Bayern Munich – Bayer Leverkusen: The Bavarians’ Rampant Form Remains Spotless (3-0)

The reigning champions have been in blistering form since the start of the season. A tie against one of the more competitive Bundesliga sides in recent years was supposed to be at least a fight. However, Bayern Munich continued to deliver a rampant performance and result, whilst their opponents could not land a punch.

Tactical analysis and match report by Fahd Ahmed.

The opening months of the Bundesliga season have revealed many interesting narratives. At the top end of the league table, Bayern Munich’s dominant form has caught the attention of Europe. It has not only been the fact that they have collected wins against all opponents they have faced so far; the way in which Bayern have gone about their business has been stunning. The intensity in their style, fluidity in attacks, and relentless energy have been unmatched.

Bayer Leverkusen had to endure early turbulence before reaching stable ground. The post-Xabi Alonso era under Erik ten Hag’s reign was far from a smooth handover. Disappointing results and tensions behind the scenes caused them to part ways within a few weeks. Kasper Hjulmand’s arrival has brought more stability, with Leverkusen’s victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in his inaugural match in charge providing that much-needed positive change.

Ahead of their mid-week blockbuster clash against Paris Saint-Germain – a fixture that played out a couple of months back during the Club World Cup – Vincent Kompany rested a few crucial players compared to the team that thrashed Köln 4-1 the prior weekend. At the back, Dayot Upamecano was benched for Kim Min-jae, whilst Tom Bischof filled in for Josip Stanišić at left . . .