New Delhi: As the Champions League approached, Bayern Munich sought to reaffirm their dominant form in the Bundesliga. However, they were up against an FC Köln side that were struggling at the bottom of the table, yet proved to be a formidable challenge. The league leaders ultimately scraped to win as a late goal from the bench sealed the victory for the home side.
Bayern coach Alexander Straus made three changes to the starting lineup following their resounding 4-0 victory over Werder Bremen. Damjanovic, Lohmann, and Simon were brought in to replace Dallmann, Bühl, and the suspended captain Viggosdottir, who was serving a ban. Conversely, FC Köln’s Daniel Weber made only two changes after their disappointing 0-2 loss to SC Freiburg. Goalkeeper Hoppe, nursing a bruise, was replaced by Osigus, while Bienz was introduced as a striker in place of Billa.
From the outset, Köln surprised many by coming out with surprising energy, challenging the league leaders and creating several chances. Notably, Damjanovic and Schüller tested the Bayern defense on three separate occasions. Neither sides were able to take the lead in the half and went into the tunnel with scores level. The second half continued in a similar vein, and both sides seeked to break the deadlock. Both sides created a few chances for themselves which kept the crowd engaged. It was German International Bühl, ultimately, who broke the deadlock in the game.
44-game unbeaten run in the Bundesliga
👊 Klara #Bühls Treffer sichert uns den 𝗛𝗲𝗶𝗺𝘀𝗶𝗲𝗴. 🔴⚪#FCBKOE #FCBayern #DieLiga pic.twitter.com/ZBytaVW8eS
— FC Bayern Frauen (@FCBfrauen) October 5, 2024
Just seven minutes after being substituted on, she won an aerial duel and expertly curled a shot from the edge of the penalty area into the left corner, giving Bayern a 1-0 lead in the 71st minute. It was enough to wrap up the three points. This win marked an impressive 44th consecutive unbeaten league match for the Bayern women, who now boast a perfect 15 points and a goal difference of 15, firmly establishing their position at the top of the table.
Meanwhile, Eintracht Frankfurt will look to close the gap when they face SGS Essen on Sunday. Looking ahead, Bayern will host Arsenal for their Champions League opener on Wednesday at 6:45 p.m., while Köln will aim to regroup as they prepare to face TSG Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga on Sunday at 2 p.m. Following that, Bayern will face a critical match against cup winners VfL Wolfsburg on October 12 at 5:45 p.m.
Bayern Munich extended their winning streak to start the Bundesliga season with a slender win against FC Köln to keep them rooted towards the bottom of the table. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today