Bayern Munich delivered a resounding performance in the Champions League, taking a significant step toward the quarter-finals with a convincing 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Xabi Alonso’s defensive strategy backfired as his team struggled to contain the attacking power of the Bavarians.
Bayern’s Commanding Display
The match, held at Bayern’s home ground on Wednesday evening, saw an early goal from Harry Kane in the 9th minute, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Jamal Musiala extended the lead in the 54th minute before Kane sealed the victory with his second goal in the 75th minute. Leverkusen’s Nordi Mukiele was sent off with a second yellow card in the 62nd minute, adding to his team’s woes and ruling him out for the return leg on March 11.
After the match, Kane expressed his satisfaction with Bayern’s performance, highlighting the team’s increased focus compared to previous encounters. Musiala also credited the team’s intensity and freshness as key factors in their success. On the other side, Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka acknowledged his team’s efforts but admitted that costly mistakes led to their downfall.
Alonso’s Tactical Gamble Fails
Leverkusen, missing key forwards Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick, opted for an ultra-defensive setup with eight defenders in the starting lineup. However, this cautious approach failed to replicate the defensive solidity they had displayed in their previous goalless draw against Bayern.
Bayern capitalized on Leverkusen’s conservative strategy, applying relentless pressure from the start. Mario Hermoso made an early goal-line clearance for Leverkusen, but he could not prevent Kane from scoring soon after. The visitors had a rare chance to equalize when Bayern’s Dayot Upamecano made a poor back pass, but Jeremy Frimpong was denied by the quick reflexes of Manuel Neuer.
Musiala Shines as Bayern Takes Full Control
Despite a few moments of promise, Leverkusen struggled to create clear chances. Musiala nearly doubled the lead in the first half, hitting the crossbar with a header. However, he finally got on the scoresheet in the 54th minute, pouncing on a goalkeeping error from Matej Kovar.
Bayern suffered a brief scare when Neuer injured his leg while celebrating Musiala’s goal, forcing him to be substituted. Young goalkeeper Jonas Urbig made his debut for Bayern, though he was barely tested as Leverkusen failed to mount a serious challenge.
Leverkusen’s Discipline Issues Compound Their Misery
Leverkusen’s night went from bad to worse when Mukiele received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Kingsley Coman. Shortly afterward, Edmond Tapsoba conceded a penalty for pulling down Kane, who confidently converted from the spot to secure Bayern’s 3-0 win.
Statistically, Bayern’s dominance was evident, with a staggering 17-3 advantage in shots on goal and over 60% possession. Leverkusen’s inability to trouble Bayern’s defense reflected the ineffectiveness of Alonso’s tactical approach.
Alonso Admits Tactical Missteps
In the post-match interview, Xabi Alonso acknowledged that his tactical setup may have contributed to the defeat but insisted that the main issue was his team’s mistakes and lack of composure. The loss marked Leverkusen’s first defeat against Bayern under Alonso in their seventh competitive meeting.
With a comfortable lead heading into the second leg, Bayern Munich now holds a strong advantage in the tie, while Leverkusen faces an uphill battle to turn things around in their home fixture.
