Bayern Munich launched the Vincent Kompany era in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 4-0 victory over second-division side Ulm in the German Cup on Friday night. This dominant performance marked Bayern’s first competitive fixture under the guidance of their new manager, signaling a promising start to what the club hopes will be a return to their winning ways.
The match, held at Ulm’s Donaustadion, was notable for its blend of veteran prowess and new blood, with Bayern veteran Thomas Müller stealing the show early on. Müller, a stalwart of the team at 34 years old, demonstrated that he remains a crucial asset to the squad by scoring two goals in quick succession during the first half.
The first goal came just 12 minutes into the game when Joshua Kimmich, another seasoned Bayern player, delivered a precise pass that Müller deftly tapped in to give Bayern the lead. Barely three minutes later, Müller found the back of the net again, this time converting a cross from Serge Gnabry, doubling Bayern’s advantage and leaving Ulm reeling.
Bayern continued to dominate the match, controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Despite their relentless pressure, the Bavarian giants had to wait until the final stages of the game to further extend their lead.
Kingsley Coman, who has consistently been one of Bayern’s most reliable performers in recent seasons, added a third goal in the 79th minute. Coman’s goal came from a pass by Michael Olise, a new signing who already appears to be making his mark in the squad. Olise’s involvement in the buildup to the goal highlighted Bayern’s depth and the potential for new signings to contribute meaningfully in the season ahead.
As the match neared its conclusion, Harry Kane, one of Bayern’s marquee signings, made his presence felt. In injury time, Kane scored his first German Cup goal, rounding off the scoring and sealing a comprehensive 4-0 victory. The goal was a testament to Kane’s ability to deliver in crucial moments, something Bayern will undoubtedly rely on as the season progresses.
For Bayern, this match was about more than just advancing to the next round of the German Cup. It was about setting the tone for the season under Vincent Kompany’s leadership. Kompany, who was brought in during the summer following Bayern’s first trophyless campaign since 2012, has been tasked with returning the club to its dominant form. The Belgian manager’s debut in the dugout was highly anticipated, and this commanding win will likely ease any lingering concerns about the direction the club is heading under his stewardship.
Müller’s performance was particularly significant, as it demonstrated that the veteran still has plenty to offer, even as Bayern looks to younger talents to carry them forward. His leadership on the pitch, combined with the emerging influence of players like Olise, suggests that Kompany has the blend of experience and youth necessary to compete on multiple fronts this season.
Elsewhere in the competition, several other Bundesliga teams also secured their passage to the next round, albeit with some challenges. Mainz, St. Pauli, and Hoffenheim all progressed past lower-league opponents, despite falling behind at various points in their matches. Their victories underscored the unpredictability and excitement that the German Cup often brings, as lower-tier teams frequently punch above their weight in the early rounds.
Meanwhile, defending German Cup holders Bayer Leverkusen are set to kick off their competitive season on Saturday night in the DFL Supercup against Stuttgart. Leverkusen, who also claimed the Bundesliga title last season, will be eager to add more silverware to their collection as they take on Stuttgart in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
As for Bayern, their resounding victory against Ulm sets a positive tone for the Kompany era. With the season now in full swing, Bayern’s fans will be hoping that this is just the beginning of a campaign filled with success and silverware.
