Bayern Munich’s remarkable journey through the Champions League group stage continues as they secured a 2-1 victory against Copenhagen. Despite falling behind, the Bundesliga giants orchestrated a comeback, with Jamal Musiala (67′) and Mathys Tel (83′) netting crucial goals. Lukas Lerager had initially given Copenhagen the lead early in the second half (56′).
In a positive light, this triumph has further solidified Bayern Munich’s undefeated streak in the Champions League group stage, now spanning an impressive 36 games. Additionally, the German record champions have triumphed in their last 16 consecutive matches, setting a historic milestone as the first team in Champions League history to remain unbeaten in 18 consecutive group stage away games.
Notably, Thomas Müller has equaled the record of former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas with 101 Champions League wins. Cristiano Ronaldo (115), the former star of Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, leads the chart, but with Ronaldo currently plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, it seems only a matter of time until Müller secures that record.
Adding to the good news, Bayern Munich’s primary rivals in the group, Manchester United, suffered a 3-2 defeat against Galatasaray at Old Trafford, putting Bayern in an advantageous position to advance to the next round with a victory over Galatasaray on matchday 3.
However, not everything was smooth sailing for Bayern Munich. Despite defeating Copenhagen, the match raised questions about head coach Thomas Tuchel’s tactics. Bayern struggled during the first 45 minutes, and a stronger opponent might have capitalized on this, similar to what Leverkusen and Leipzig had done earlier in the season.
Tuchel acknowledged the challenges, stating, “It was very difficult. They defended tightly and compactly, making it tough to break them down. Although conceding from their first half-chance of the second half made things harder, turning the game around should be considered a good performance.”
The team’s awakening came with Musiala’s superb equalizer and key substitutions. Tuchel introduced Mathys Tel for Leroy Sané and Thomas Müller for Konrad Laimer. These changes proved pivotal, with Müller’s goal, six minutes after coming on, securing the win. Tuchel praised the impact of these substitutions, emphasizing their infusion of energy and increased danger in their game.
While Tuchel’s tactical adjustments played a vital role in the victory, both goals were ultimately the result of individual brilliance. Whether it was Musiala’s exceptional dribble and finish or Müller’s powerful dribble and assist for the winner, tactical systems played a secondary role.
Tuchel acknowledged the importance of squad depth, stating, “We can’t achieve our goals this season with just 11 players; we need the energy from the bench.” However, he faces the challenge of shaping Bayern Munich’s identity on the field, as the team currently lacks a clear tactical signature. In the future, stronger opponents than Copenhagen may not be as susceptible to rescue by individual brilliance.
