Bayern Munich’s Fine Run Continues with Victory Over PSG Ahead of Bundesliga battle against Union Berlin
Bayern Munich are on fire. The German giants have proved once again why they are among the most formidable in Europe. Only a few days back they won despite being ten men throughout the second half and even overcame the reigning UEFA Champions League winners – Paris Saint-Germain (2-1). That victory was a reminder that Bayern do not go away, whatever the circumstances.
Now, they prepare to face Union Berlin at Allianz Arena in their first game back in the Bundesliga. Union Berlin is currently ranked 10th in the table. Their recent form has been very inconsistent with wins, draws and losses in their past five matches. Bayern, in their current mood, are one of the most difficult challenges any team can face in Germany.
When you face the Rekordmeister — or the record champions — you have to prepare yourself for 90 minutes of suffocation.
Bayern latest: Confidence and consistency
No team has looked better in recent weeks than Bayern Munich. Their offense is humming, and their defense has found its equilibrium. With a red card hanging over their game against PSG, the Bavarians kept their composure, fought and still came out with all three points.
Bayern appear to have a new rhythm under Vincent Kompany. The young have been mixed in very nicely with older, more experienced players by the Belgian boss. The result? A side that appears organized, motivated and ready to fight for every trophy.
Fucking Harry Kane still doing bits as Bayern’s main man upfront. The Englishman has been banging the goals in for fun since he arrived from Tottenham Hotspur. He’s not just finishing his chances, but beautifully linking up with the wingers and midfielders. He is developing a better understanding with Michael Olise and Luis Díaz by the game.
The heartbeat of the team in midfield is Joshua Kimmich. His composure, passing and leadership under pressure are amongst the best by a midfielder in continental Europe.
Team News and Possible Lineup
Vincent Kompany will probably rotate a little for this game. Some players need a bit of a break after coming through such stern competition against PSG. But Bayern still have the numbers to field a strong team.
This is what the likely starting XI would look like:
- Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
- Centre backs: Konrad Laimer, Dayot Upamecano, Kim Min-jae and Alphonso Davies
- Midfield: Tom Bischof and Joshua Kimmich at the pivot
- Forwards: Michael Olise, Lennart Karl and Luis Díaz behind Harry Kane
These are the attackers they have and who they can use for offense and defense. A mixture of youth and experience in their side will see them manage the game well and look to get opportunities in the wider areas.
Union Berlin : The fortunate and unlucky Club.
Union Berlin are no pushovers, despite being on a rollercoaster of form. Moments of brilliance and moments of weakness have typified the club’s season so far.
Their power comes from their unity and discipline. Union sometimes plays compact football, defending deep and waiting for fast counterattacks. They’ll have to be perfect defensively against Bayern and take advantage of any half chances they’re afforded.
But when you go up against the Bayern München of this world in such a situation, even achieving a draw feel like a victory.
What to Expect from the Match
This game will likely be all Bayern from start to finish. The home fans at the Allianz Arena will have dreams of another great display. Bayern will have the ball, press high and try to generate chances early.
Union Berlin can park the bus and attempt to frustrate the hosts. “Wherever the pass is to our good players, they’ll get through,” he said. “But for six or 10 minutes we had them on the back foot, so let’s be honest: that’s okay. “But Bayern has so much quality going forward that not many teams can stifle it for long. With Harry Kane’s accuracy and Michael Olise’s imagination and Díaz’s pace, surely it is only a matter of time before the goal comes.
Another something that I think it’s worth mentioning, is the set piece danger of Bayern. Upamecano and Kim Min-jae are not the only threats in defense, as Bayern can be dangerous from corners and free kicks.
Kompany’s Growing Influence
Vincent Kompany has reinvigorated Bayern Munich as head coach. His tactical concepts are clear — high pressing, rapid transitions and owning the ball. He wants them to be brave and you could see that even when they had 10 men against PSG.
Kompany’s faith in youth, with the likes of Tom Bischof and Lennart Karl impressing since their promotion from the Under 18s, is also good for the future. It is not easy to strike a balance between youth and experience, but Kompany appears to be pulling it off.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
I find it difficult to imagine this as anything other than another win for Bayern. The team is also super confident after the victory over PSG and playing at their home makes it even better. Union Berlin will be game, but Bayern’s attacking power may prove overwhelming.
Bayern Munich 3 – 0 Union Berlin The safe bet will be on the home side, and they should get a clear face here.
This could be another statement game from Bayern Munich — a reminder to the rest of Europe that they should be taken seriously in every competition this season.
Form is everything in football, and it can change fast, but at the moment Bayern look locked in and feisty. They have the Bundesliga title as well as European glory in their sights. With lads like Kane, Kimmich and Neuer filling up the ranks, Kompany orchestrating things behind the scenes, it seems like nothing can really go wrong for Bavarians.
So, while the TV attention may be on big Premier League clash “Tottenham vs man united”, make no mistake — Bayern Munich are creating something special in Germany under the radar.
Tags: Bayern Munich Union Berlin Harry Kane Vincent Kompany UEFA Champions League Bundesliga Tottenham vs man united PSG vs Bayern Munich Bayern vs Union Berlin preview
