Bundesliga 2024/25: Bayern Munich hold Bayer Leverkusen to a stalemate in title race clash

Bundesliga 2024/25: Bayern Munich hold Bayer Leverkusen to a stalemate in title race clash
Bundesliga 2024/25: Bayern Munich hold Bayer Leverkusen to a stalemate in title race clash

New Delhi: Bayer Leverkusen controlled possession and created the better chances, but Bayern Munich left the BayArena with a point that keeps them firmly on top of the Bundesliga table. Xabi Alonso’s men were superior throughout the match, but Vincent Kompany’s side defended well and held on for a goalless draw.

The result means Bayern remain eight points clear, leaving Leverkusen with little room for error in the title race.

The anticipation for this game was immense, with both sides knowing how important the result could be in deciding the Bundesliga title. Leverkusen needed a win to close the gap, while Bayern knew avoiding defeat would keep them in control of the race.

Despite the home side’s dominance, Bayern’s defence stood strong, and a mixture of Neuer’s saves and the woodwork denied Leverkusen a crucial victory.

Leverkusen dominate but fail to break Bayern’s defence

 

Right from kick-off, Leverkusen looked the more dangerous side. They played with high intensity, pressing Bayern and forcing them to defend deep. The first major chance came in the 21st minute when Jeremie Frimpong met a cross but saw his header crash against the crossbar. Just moments later, Nathan Tella also struck the woodwork, as Leverkusen continued to pile on the pressure.

Bayern, on the other hand, struggled to get forward. The record champions surprisingly failed to register a single shot on target throughout the entire match. Instead, they relied on their defensive organisation to frustrate Leverkusen. Manuel Neuer was kept busy in goal, making key saves to deny the home side from finding the breakthrough.

The second half saw Bayern make several changes in an attempt to gain control. Serge Gnabry, Leon Goretzka, Josip Stanišić, and Leroy Sané were all introduced in the 68th minute. However, Leverkusen’s control remained intact, and the game continued in the same pattern. Florian Wirtz, who was at the heart of Leverkusen’s attacking play, created openings but couldn’t find a decisive moment. His best chance came late in the game, but his shot went wide, leaving Alonso’s men frustrated.

For Bayern, this was a result they would have gladly accepted before kick-off. Their defensive approach was unusual, but it worked, as they successfully kept Leverkusen out. For the home side, though, it was two points dropped. With the gap still at eight points, Leverkusen will need Bayern to slip up in the coming weeks if they are to keep their title hopes alive

 Bayer Leverkusen dominated possession and chances, but Bayern Munich held firm for a 0-0 draw. Xabi Alonso’s side missed key opportunities, leaving Bayern eight points clear at the Bundesliga summit.  Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today