From BZ/dpa
Union was only able to counter Bayern’s dominance in their first defeat in 2023 in the first half hour.
FC Bayern has shot itself back to the top of the table and clearly put Union Berlin in its place. In front of 75,000 spectators in the Allianz Arena on Sunday, coach Julian Nagelsmann’s star football ensemble crowned their offensive enthusiasm with goals from Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (31st minute), Kingsley Coman (40th) and birthday boy Jamal Musiala (20). stoppage time of the first half.
Bayern (46 points) are now leading the table thanks to the significantly better goal difference even after the 22nd matchday ahead of BVB and Union (43).
The Berliners were only able to stop the Bayern Express halfway in their first defeat in 2023 in the first half hour. After conceding the first goal, however, the amazing Bayern hunter lacked the energy to defend himself. Just three days after the tour de force in the great success in the Europa League against Ajax Amsterdam, that was not surprising.
The lead for Bayern: Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting heads in to make it 1-0 Photo: Sven Hoppe/dpa
After the break, the good Union goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow prevented even worse things for the Irons with a few saves, such as against the agile but hapless Bayern captain Thomas Müller (73rd) or Alphono Davies (86th).
Joshua Kimmich was the boss in midfield with clever passes. Coman, who was still injured and sorely missed at the 2: 3 in Gladbach, was a constant asset. And veteran Müller demonstrated his value not only with two assists
Union coach Urs Fischer had expected “irritated” Bayern – and was confirmed. His players lacked the physical and mental freshness against rested Munich, who were often faster and prevailed in decisive duels.
Kingsley Coman curves around Union goalkeeper Frederik Rönnow and pushes in to make it 2-0 for Bayern Photo: City Press
The second Bayern goal came from a vigorously won header by defender Matthijs de Ligt. Müller passed the ball on to Coman’s run, which was completed ice-cold in the occasional snowstorm. Before that, Union’s Aissa Laidouni had the only chance to turn the game around. His volley flew over the goal (37th). After the break, Union managed to contain the damage with luck and Rönnow.