Bundesliga 2024/25: Bayern Munich’s dominance goes unrewarded against Leverkusen

New Delhi: Bayern Munich faced Bayer Leverkusen in a highly anticipated Bundesliga clash on Saturday, where the match ended in a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Arena. Bayern had the upper hand throughout the game, but they couldn’t convert their dominance into a win. Despite trading goals in the first half, neither side managed to find the net again, leaving Bayern at the top of the league table.

Bayern started with a strong lineup, featuring Manuel Neuer in goal. The defence included Raphaël Guerreiro, Dayot Upamecano, Minjae Kim, and Alphonso Davies. In midfield, Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlović anchored the team, supported by Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, and Serge Gnabry, while Harry Kane led the attack. In the second half, Kingsley Coman, Konrad Laimer, Leroy Sané, and Thomas Müller replaced Gnabry, Guerreiro, Olise, and Kane.

The first half saw Bayern dominate possession, with Musiala frequently finding gaps in Leverkusen’s defence. However, it was Leverkusen who struck first against the run of play. In the 31st minute, Granit Xhaka controlled a corner and set up Robert Andrich, whose powerful shot from outside the box sailed into the bottom corner, leaving Neuer with no chance. They equalized in style when it looked like Bayern would go into half-time trailing. In the 39th minute, Pavlović unleashed a stunning half-volley from 25 metres that curled into the top corner, brushing past Lukas Hrádecký’s fingertips.

Kompany absolutely schooled and dominated Alonso.

The only thing Leverkusen wanted is a draw. pic.twitter.com/ET9rbDVqWg

— Bayern & Football (@MunichFanpage) September 28, 2024

Bayern started the second half with renewed energy, pressing hard for the winner. Serge Gnabry had two excellent opportunities to put his team ahead but it was unfortunate. His first shot hit the post, and his follow-up attempt clipped the crossbar. The home side continued to press, but Leverkusen’s defence, led by Jonathan Tah, remained resolute. Musiala, frustrated with the lack of a penalty after a challenge from Xhaka in the box, saw his attempts thwarted.

As the match wore on, Harry Kane limped off in the closing minutes after a collision, replaced by Thomas Müller. Müller also had a chance to earn a penalty but failed to convince the referee. Despite Bayern’s efforts and a barrage of shots—18 in total compared to Leverkusen’s three—both teams had to settle for a point.

The result leaves Bayern atop the Bundesliga table with 13 points from five matches, two clear of RB Leipzig, while Leverkusen sits third with 10 points. Bayern will look to bounce back as they prepare to face Aston Villa in the Champions League on Wednesday.