Bayern Munich 3-0 SC Freiburg: Initial reactions and observations

Initial reactions and observations

• This was probably the most controlled game Bayern Munich have played in a long time. Freiburg did not get a single chance, they were barely a factor in the match from an offensive perspective. The scoreline is misleading since Bayern actually had a few decent chances that weren’t converted — it could have been a 5-0.
• Kingsley Coman scored twice and still managed to have a disappointing performance. He remains such a hit-and-miss player, even over the course of 90 minute — so much of what he does results in failed shot or a loss in possession. Not confidence inspiring.
• Harry Kane did not score but he did assist Sane for the 2-0. No matter what, he’s always involved in the goals.
• What does Konrad Laimer even DO?
• It’s a shame that Mathys Tel didn’t score, his ratio of goals/minute is in danger. Still, good on Tuchel for continuing to give him consistent minutes. This is how you ease a youngster into the setup.

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Looking for more analysis of the game? Is Leroy Sané (arguably) the best player in the world right now? What about Thomas Muller — how does he influence the way Bayern Munich plays in 2023? We talk about all that and a lot more (including a bit on Germany and Nagelsmann) in our newest podcast episode! Listen to it below or directly on Spotify.

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Full time: Bayern Munich 3-0 SC Freiburg.

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84’ — GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL! Kingsley Coman does it like Robben, cuts inside and scores.

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70’ — Subs: Mathys Tel and Jamal Musiala are on for Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala.

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45’ — The second half is underway!

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Halftime observations and analysis

• This may be the most dominant half that Bayern Munich have ever had under Thomas Tuchel. Not only have the goals been flowing (that offside was ridiculous by the way) but Bayern have had Freiburg locked down tight. The pressing has been so quick and efficient that Streich doesn’t seem to know what hit him. Wonder what changed.
• Harry Kane could stand to be a little bit more selfish, he’s had a couple of chances to take a shot where he passed instead.
• Thomas Muller is the cure for boring U-shaped football. Bayern Munich seem so DIRECT today.
• The referees just suck these days. You have to wonder if the DFL is just trying desperately to keep Bayern from winning.
• Kingsley Coman could stand to pass a little more often.
• Leroy Sane must be the best player in the world right now.

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Halftime: Bayern Munich lead 2-0.

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45’+3’ — Offside. No idea how, but Bayern Munich have a beauty of a goal by Leroy Sane taken away by VAR.

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25’ — GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL! Leroy Sane makes it 2-0 via Harry Kane!

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12’ — GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL! Kingsley Coman hits a cross so bad that it ends up in the net.

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Kickoff: We’re underway!

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One hour until kickoff: We have lineups! Thomas Müller gets his first start in a very long time, wearing the captain’s armband for Bayern Munich. Other major changes include Leon Goretzka in for Konrad Laimer, and Noussair Mazraoui at right-back. This is very close to the starting XI fans have been asking for, but no Musiala is a disappointment.

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It’s matchday again and Bayern Munich host SC Freiburg and Christian Streich at the Allianz Arena. The Bavarians have had a good long rest since the game versus Copenhagen on Tuesday, giving them the nominal advantage over Freiburg, who had to face West Ham on Thursday. This is on top of all the other advantages Bayern have in general.

Thomas Tuchel has pretty much his whole squad at his disposal, missing only Serge Gnabry, Matthijs de Ligt, and Manuel Neuer. Harry Kane and Leroy Sané failed to score versus Copenhagen so they’re due a goal, and certain other players are long overdue a start.

It’s Bayern time.

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While you’re waiting for the game, why not check out our Weekend Warm-up podcast! Listen to it below or on Spotify.

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Match Info

Location: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany

Time: 5:30 pm local time, 11:30 pm EST

TV/streaming: ESPN+, Find Your Country

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