An absolutely thrilling match between Bayern Munich and FC Ingolstadt surprised most Bundesliga viewers.
Bayern at home against a team fighting for survival should be a formality on paper for the German giants, however, Ingolstadt shocked the hosts with the opening goal.
Yet Bayern responded almost immediately with a goal of their own. The visitors had chances to restore their advantage, only for Xabi Alonso’s brilliant strike to provide Die Roten with the advantage before Rafinha sealed the three points.
Manuel Neuer gets to show off his skills
Even though Manuel Neuer is widely regarded as the best goalkeeper in the world, he often does not have the chance to show it as Bayern are usually too good for him to be needed. This was absolutely not the case against Ingolstadt, with Neuer showing that when he has to, he can conjure up incredible moments. As Ingolstadt picked up the pace in the second half, Bayern’s custodian was forced to show off his amazing skills as he stopped a point-blank rocket from Socceroos winger Mathew Leckie. The ex-Schalke goalkeeper went on to top almost every single attempt at goal from then on as Ingolstadt tired out and eventually conceded. Even though he does not have the biggest highlight reel, there is no doubting Neuer’s incredible skill.
Ingolstadt just as good as last season
The Bavarian club made their first ever Bundesliga appearance last season and went on the become one of the biggest surprises, maintaining an excellent defensive record and a very respectable mid-table finish. Ingolstadt refused to settle for less this season as they revamped their side with new manager Markus Kauczinski and a host of new signings. It was a risky move to change a formula that appeared to be working well but the risk is paying off. The Bundesliga newbies are adapting to their environment and proving to Germany that they deserve to stay. They were unfortunate to lose against Die Roten but the way they presented themselves will alert every club in Germany that Ingolstadt are not going to roll over against the big sides. It is also fantastic to see an important Australian player in Leckie play such a crucial starting role.
Bayern need some backup
Injury crisis is almost a yearly occurrence with Bayern and, while they have not had one yet, the match against Ingolstadt showed what it would be like if they lost just a few key players. David Alaba, Thomas Muller and Philipp Lahm were all out due to illness while, Mats Hummels was being rested and the result on the pitch was far from impressive. Bayern was shocking defensively as Neuer was forced to make a number of dramatic saves just to keep them in the game. It was a poor attacking display as well, while Robert Lewandowski did manage to bag a goal as the lone striker hed lacked the fluency that they would normally achieve with Muller. It’s not time to panic for Bayern as every player should be available for the next match, but with a performance like this Ancelotti needs to seriously consider some backup, as they rely far too heavily on certain players.
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