Bayern Munich delivered a commanding performance to secure a crucial first-leg victory against 10-man Bayer Leverkusen, dealing a significant blow to their opponent’s unbeaten run. While Leverkusen have been dominating the Bundesliga, their Champions League hopes took a major hit as Bayern outclassed them in every aspect of the game.
The match highlighted a growing rivalry, with Bayern tactically superior and physically dominant. Despite Leverkusen’s attempts to disrupt their rhythm, Bayern dictated the tempo early on. The breakthrough came when Harry Kane, who had faced some criticism for his work rate, responded emphatically with a brilliant header to open the scoring. Leverkusen’s issues compounded when goalkeeper Matej Kovar mishandled a cross, leading to another Bayern goal, and Nordi Mukiele received a second yellow card, leaving them at a numerical disadvantage.
Tactically, Bayern were well-prepared for Leverkusen’s usual high-intensity game. Their defensive structure, bolstered by Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, limited Leverkusen to just three shots. Kingsley Coman’s selection over Leroy Sané and Serge Gnabry provided direct pace, while Michael Olise, despite a stellar season, struggled to make an impact. The influence of Bayern’s tactical setup was evident, particularly in the way the full-backs tucked inside to neutralize counterattacks.
Leverkusen’s talisman Florian Wirtz was largely ineffective, heavily marked by Kimmich and unable to impose himself on the game. Up front, Amine Adli, having dealt with injuries throughout the season, looked unprepared for the intensity. Kovar’s inclusion in goal was a gamble that backfired, with his mistake proving costly.
As frustration grew, Leverkusen lost their composure. Mukiele’s reckless challenge on Coman resulted in his dismissal, and Edmond Tapsoba conceded a penalty moments after coming on, allowing Kane to seal the result. A late missed opportunity by João Palhinha to make it 4-0 could have all but ended the tie, but despite the heavy defeat, Leverkusen retain a slim chance of a comeback in the second leg.
Alonso acknowledged his side’s struggles, admitting that they failed to manage key moments in the game. While the result leaves them with an uphill battle, the return leg will determine whether any hope remains or if Bayern have definitively ended their European campaign.
