This article is authored by Matthew Coates

In a strategic move, Alex Straus implemented two key changes following the Round of 16 Pokal victory against Freiburg. Notably, Julia Zigiotti stepped in for Sarah Zadrazil in the midfield, while Alara Şehitler earned a starting role over Linda Dallman in the attacking lineup. Adding to the excitement, Klara Bühl celebrated her 24th birthday by securing a spot in Straus’ starting eleven. This dynamic lineup showcased the team’s depth and versatility, setting the stage for an engaging match filled with tactical displays and skillful performances.

Here’s the Bayern Starting XI for the Match

Ena Mahmutovic (GK) – Giulia Gwinn, Glódís Viggósdóttir (c), Tuva Hansen, Carolin Simon – Julia Zigiotti, Georgia Stanway – Alara Şehitler, Pernille Harder, Klara Bühl, Lea Schüller

In recent league matches, Bayern Munich had gone four games unbeaten, boasting a record of two wins and two draws since their defeat against Wolfsburg. Their latest performance was an impressive 5-0 triumph at home against Carl Zeiss Jena, which showcased their attacking prowess and solid defense. On the other hand, their opponents, Essen, were struggling significantly, remaining winless in four consecutive matches, with one draw and three losses. As they prepared for this clash, they found themselves sitting in 9th place on the table, putting additional pressure on the team to improve their standings.

Bayern Munich’s Commanding First Half Performance

Bayern Munich established clear dominance in possession during the first half, orchestrating numerous opportunities to score. The initial chance arose in the sixth minute when a shot from Gwinn was deflected by a defender, veering dangerously toward the near post where it was ultimately saved by the Essen goalkeeper, Sophia Winkler. This early action signaled Bayern’s intent to control the match and keep the pressure on their opponents.

Shortly after, Bühl crafted a delicate cross aimed at the center of the goal, which was met by Harder’s head, but Winkler was quick to react, saving the attempt. A few moments later, a precise cross from Schüller nearly connected with Harder, who was in position to capitalize, demonstrating Bayern’s attacking fluidity. Despite their strong offensive display, Bayern struggled to find that decisive finish, with some uncharacteristic loose passes allowing Essen brief moments of forward momentum, which the Bayern defense managed to handle effectively.

In the 17th minute, a quick counter-attack by Bayern followed a brief spell of possession from Essen, but Gwinn’s shot, taken with her weaker foot, lacked the necessary power to trouble the goalkeeper. Shortly thereafter, a cross from Schüller came close to reaching Şehitler, only to be cleared by an Essen defender in a desperate attempt to maintain their defensive integrity.

After a sustained period of possession, Bayern finally executed a brilliantly orchestrated attacking play. An overlapping run from Gwinn instigated panic within the Essen defense, leading her to pull the ball back to Şehitler at the edge of the box. Şehitler responded with an exquisite chip, finding Harder at the center of the box, who made no mistake in smashing the ball past Winkler to open the scoring at 0-1. This goal exemplified Bayern’s attacking capabilities and their hunger for more.

Following the goal, Bayern’s motivation to extend their lead was palpable, evident right from the kickoff. In the 33rd minute, Bühl and Schüller both unleashed dangerous efforts that were expertly saved in quick succession by Winkler. Schüller then had another attempt moments later, but once again, Winkler was equal to the task, showcasing her goalkeeping prowess.

As the first half progressed to the 41st minute, Bayern believed they had scored a second goal through a rebound from Harder, but the referee ruled it offside, much to the relief of the Essen defense. The continuous pressure from Bayern was relentless, and the Essen players must have felt a wave of relief when the first half finally concluded, with Bayern narrowly ahead on the scoreboard.

Second Half Challenges for Bayern Munich

The second half commenced with Essen demonstrating newfound intent, putting Bayern on the back foot as they struggled to reclaim control of the match. Their first shot of the game came in the 54th minute, when a defensive header fell to Laureta Elmazi, whose shot narrowly missed the target, serving as a warning for Bayern after their dominant first-half display.

Essen maintained sustained possession in Bayern’s half, gradually ramping up the pressure on the visitors in front of their home crowd. In the 65th minute, Mahmutovic was forced to make her first significant save from a shot at the near post by Ramona Maier. Just moments later, she had to react again, making a second save, this time from a header by Maier following a deep cross, showcasing her importance to the Bayern defense.

Throughout the second half, Bayern’s performance was noticeably uncharacteristic, as they struggled to maintain possession effectively, frequently resorting to loose passes that allowed Essen more opportunities to advance. Many of Bayern’s attempts to clear the ball were half-hearted, enabling Essen to regain possession with relative ease. The match devolved into a scrappy contest marked by multiple yellow cards; Essen received two, while Bayern accumulated four, indicating the rising tensions on the pitch.

It wasn’t until the 83rd minute that Bayern managed to create a noteworthy chance. Following a series of promising plays on the right side, the ball eventually reached Harder, but she could only muster a weak shot that was easily collected by the goalkeeper. The pressure continued to mount as the clock wound down, and in the 87th minute, Bayern’s best opportunity of the second half emerged from a trademark long-range effort by Stanway; however, Winkler was again able to intervene effectively.

As the match approached its conclusion, the fourth official indicated four minutes of added time, which presented a crucial moment for both teams. Essen was awarded a free kick, and their goalkeeper, Sophia Winkler, was instructed to join the attack. This decision would ultimately backfire for Essen.

The free kick was cleared to Stanway, who was positioned further up the pitch than Winkler. Seizing the opportunity, she skillfully fended off a defender and unleashed a long-range effort that rolled into the net from the halfway line, extending Bayern’s lead to 0-2. This remarkable goal not only sealed the victory but also showcased the team’s resilience and tactical awareness.

The final whistle brought a wave of relief for Bayern fans, who celebrated a hard-fought away victory that highlighted their ability to grind out results, even when faced with challenges.

Bayern Prepares for Crucial Match Against Juventus Midweek

This match was certainly characterized by its contrasting halves. Bayern exhibited remarkable dominance in the first half and could have easily scored two or three more goals if not for the outstanding performances of goalkeeper Sophia Winkler. However, the second half revealed a different Bayern side that struggled to maintain their earlier control. Alternatively, one must commend Essen for their spirited effort and determination, as they returned to the pitch with a renewed intensity and belief that they could compete for points.

Even though they faced Essen, Bayern found themselves under significant pressure at various points during the match but managed to secure the vital win. This result places Bayern joint atop the Bundesliga table alongside Bayer Leverkusen, following their victory against third-placed Wolfsburg. Currently, Bayern leads on goal difference but could potentially drop to second place if Frankfurt secures a win at home against Leipzig on Monday evening. With the table being exceptionally tight, even a subpar performance can have significant implications for the title race as the season progresses.

Looking ahead, Bayern’s focus will shift to the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL), where, despite already securing progression, finishing first in their group remains a top priority. This positioning would grant them a more favorable matchup in the quarter-finals. A home victory against Juventus could set the stage for a thrilling final-day showdown in London, depending on how Arsenal performs against Vålerenga. Bayern’s upcoming clash with Juventus on Thursday evening marks an essential milestone in their quest for glory in the UWCL.