FC Augsburg’s 2-1 victory at the Allianz Arena proved that even Vincent Kompany’s mighty Bayern Munich are capable of defeat.
Here are the takeaways from the bitter loss.
Bayern Munich indestructible no more
Bayern Munich’s immense unbeaten run in the Bundesliga was always bound to end eventually, but you’d never have expected it to come at the hands of a 15th-placed Augsburg side mired in a relegation scrap. That is now a bitter reality, confirmed by a nauseating 2-1 scoreline that will be scorched into the minds of Bayern supporters for a long time to come.
In a common theme for Bayern in the last few games, it was a tale of two halves. Bayern dominated the first 45 minutes, only to be smothered by a relentless Augsburg side in the second. The only thing uncommon was Bayern, deservedly, being on the losing end of the scoreboard.
Yes, defensive injuries played an undeniable role in this loss. Yes, Bayern could have easily scored at least one more goal in the first half. But “could have, should have, would have” doesn’t win games. Augsburg deserved to win that game.
Germany’s record champions are now at a crossroads. Do they spiral, or do they fight back?
Bayern’s response will be the crux to the remainder of the season. It will determine what Vincent Kompany’s side is truly made of, and it will determine what level of success, or failure, await them at the end of the season.
The defensive injuries take their toll
A big part of Bayern’s success this season has been their defensive stability. A stability bread by familiarity, and a familiarity allowed by a lack of injuries. The injury god’s, however, always have a trick up their sleeve for Die Rekordmeister.
0 Comments