Bayern Munich 2-0 Köln: Initial reactions and observations

Initial reactions and observations

Bayern Munich had to really grind for that one. On paper, Köln is a side that should be easily beaten, but until Thomas Müller’s goal went in for the 2-0, there was genuine doubt about whether the team could get all three points from this.

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With Kingsley Coman injured, Bayern Munich are down to just two fit wingers, one of whom (Zaragoza) Tuchel never even uses. We’re this close to seeing Choupo-Moting start against Arsenal.

Looking for a more in-depth review of the game? Check out our postgame podcast! Listen to it below or on Spotify.

Full time: Bayern Munich 2-0 Köln.

90’+3’ — GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL! Thomas Müller makes it 2-0!

65’ — GOOOOOOOOOOOOAL! Guerreiro makes it 1-0! Wonderful strike!

50’ — Sub: Kinglsey Coman comes off for Jamal Musiala, Coman looks like he injured something bad.

45’ — The second half is underway! Let’s hope it’s a little more eventful.

Halftime: Bayern Munich 0-0 FC Köln.

Kickoff: We’re underway!

One hour until kickoff: We have lineups! Looks like Thomas Tuchel has opted to rest some key players as Bayern Munich will be without Jamal Musiala and Leon Goretzka today. Leroy Sané is out of the squad entirely while Thomas Müller returns to the XI as captain with Manuel Neuer out. Bayern Munich ends up with the following XI:

With nothing left to play for in the league, Bayern Munich come into this game with the mindset that everything needs to be a prep game for the Champions League. That’s a dangerous way of thinking — especially since FC Köln are currently locked in a relegation battle and will do whatever is necessary to secure a point (or three).

Thomas Tuchel won’t be on the bench this week, but he’s given us some hints about the lineup. Alphonso Davies being suspended for the second leg against Arsenal means that he’s out, as are the injured duo of Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sané. Matthijs de Ligt and Eric Dier could get some rest, while Aleksandar Pavlović and Thomas Müller might return to the starting XI. Will all that be enough to best the billy goats?

It’s Bayern time.

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

Match Info

Location: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany

Time: 3:30 pm local time, 9:30 am EST

TV/streaming: ESPN+, Find Your Country

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