Kawasaki Frontale 0-1 Bayern Munich: Initial reactions and observations

Initial reactions and observations

• If you were planning on catching the highlights for this game, don't bother. Bayern Munich looked utterly pedestrian against Kawasaki Frontale, struggling to create any meaningful chances in the whole game. You have to wonder what the point is getting someone like Harry Kane if this is the system he will play in.
• Mathys Tel looked promising but was unfortunately unable to find the back of the net in this game. He got the closest out of all the attacking players who played, hitting the post once and forcing last minute blocks from the defenders on another couple of occasions.
• Thomas Tuchel put Jamal Musiala on the left wing for this game, perhaps a sign that he realizes Musiala can be better on the left. Let's hope this development continues, as it would keep him from having to compete with Thomas Muller for a spot.
• Credit to both Bouna Sarr and Ryan Gravenberch, they did really well in the second half, providing far more intensity and creativity than the starters in the first. Maybe one of them could start versus Liverpool.
• Josip Stanisic once again showed what he's capable of, scoring a goal he created out of nothing. Tuchel owes him for this win, because it doesn't feel like Bayern did enough to get the W otherwise.

Full-time: Kawasaki Frontale 0-1 Bayern Munich.

67’ — GOOOOOOOOOAL! Stanisic makes it 1-0!

45’ — The second half is underway!

Halftime: Bayern Munich have failed to score. Still 0-0.

24’ — Konrad Laimer is down and receiving treatment on the pitch. Meanwhile there’s also a drinks break.

Kickoff: We’re underway!

One hour until kickoff: We have lineups! Tuchel gives Mathys Tel a start, while Kim Min-Jae starts for the first time as a Bayern Munich player! Exciting to see them both play today. The rest of the lineup is basically as expected. Interestingly, Benjamin Pavard starts ahead of Dayot Upamecano.

So losing to Manchester City was a little unfortunate, but losing to Kawasaki Frontale would be a catastrophe. Thomas Tuchel has the opportunity to show he’s making some progress with Bayern Munich this preseason, which has been muddy thus far — he said that improvements are needed following the City game.

Players not expected to take part are Sadio Mane and Yann Sommer, who are due for transfers to Al Nassr and Inter respectively, while guys like Matthijs de Ligt and Kim Min-Jae are still doubtful due to training deficits. Whoever else plays will get a shot to show the coach what they’re made of, as Bayern Munich slowly approach the beginning of the 2023/24 season.

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

Match Info

Location: Japan National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan

Time: 6:30 pm local, 5:30 am EST

TV/streaming: Find Your Country

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