Bayern Munich tightened their grip on the Bundesliga title race with a hard-fought victory over St Pauli, extending their lead at the top of the table to six points. Leroy Sane was the standout performer, netting twice to secure an important win for his team.
The match started positively for Bayern as England captain Harry Kane opened the scoring. Michael Olise, who played a crucial creative role, delivered a precise cross that Kane swept home for his 22nd league goal of the campaign. However, the hosts responded quickly when Elias Saad skillfully evaded Bayern’s defense and slotted the ball into the bottom corner to bring St Pauli level.
Sane’s Brilliance Secures Victory
Bayern regained control before halftime, thanks to another moment of magic from Olise. The French winger produced a perfectly weighted pass over the top of the defense, finding Sane in stride. The German international brought the ball down with composure before finishing past St Pauli goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj to restore Bayern’s lead.
Sane continued to shine in the second half, doubling his tally with a cool finish following Kane’s precise low cross into the box. The goal gave Bayern breathing room, but St Pauli refused to back down. The home side made things tense in the closing moments when Lars Ritzka struck a powerful shot from the edge of the area deep into stoppage time. His well-placed effort found the bottom corner, but it proved to be only a consolation as Bayern held on for the win.
Defensive Concerns for Bayern
Despite the victory, Bayern’s defensive issues remain a concern after suffering major setbacks during the international break. Alphonso Davies, a key figure on the left flank, has been ruled out for the rest of the season after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury while representing Canada. His absence will be a significant blow to Bayern’s title hopes, as his pace and attacking contributions are crucial to the team’s system.
Additionally, French center-back Dayot Upamecano is sidelined after picking up a knee injury while on duty with France. His injury occurred during Les Bleus’ Nations League victory over Croatia, where they secured a place in the semi-finals. With two key defenders out, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany will have to find solutions to keep his team solid at the back in the crucial weeks ahead.
