Bayern Munich showed why they are one of the top favourites to win the Club World Cup with a strong performance against Brazil’s Flamengo in the Round of 16. The German champions earned a convincing 4-2 win and will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-final.
The match got off to a flying start for Bayern. Within the first ten minutes, they were already two goals up. The first goal came from a Flamengo own goal. Joshua Kimmich sent in a dangerous corner, and Flamengo’s Erick Pulgar accidentally headed the ball into his own net. Just a few minutes later, Harry Kane doubled the lead with a powerful strike from the edge of the box after a high press and pass from Dayot Upamecano.
Despite the early setback, Flamengo fought back. Around the 30-minute mark, they pulled a goal back. Luis Araujo delivered a clever pass into the box, and after some good movement, Gerson smashed the ball into the roof of the net, cutting Bayern’s lead to 2-1.
Bayern responded before halftime. Midfielder Leon Goretzka picked up a loose ball just outside the penalty area and blasted a shot past the goalkeeper, restoring Bayern’s two-goal lead at 3-1.
In the second half, Flamengo were handed a lifeline. Bayern’s Michael Olise was penalized for a handball in the box, and Jorginho calmly converted the penalty to bring the score to 3-2.
The game remained competitive, with both teams having spells of possession and creating chances. However, Bayern were more clinical. Their fourth goal came in the 73rd minute, sealing the win. Konrad Laimer won the ball in midfield and found Kimmich, who played a perfect pass to Kane. The English striker finished with precision, slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Harry Kane, who scored twice in the game, has been in great form for Bayern. His timing couldn’t be better as the team now prepares for a much-anticipated clash with French giants PSG in the quarter-finals.
Bayern’s coach Vincent Kompany made several changes for this match. Josip Stanisic started at left-back instead of Raphael Guerreiro, and Leon Goretzka was chosen over youngster Aleksandar Pavlovic in midfield. Jamal Musiala was left on the bench as a precaution due to fitness concerns. The attacking line featured Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, and Michael Olise supporting Kane. Defender Kim Min-jae was also back in the squad, providing a boost to the backline.
Bayern’s high press and sharp finishing made the difference. While Flamengo had moments of quality and managed to trouble the German side, Bayern’s ability to take their chances was key. Kane’s leadership and goal-scoring instincts were vital in keeping Bayern ahead throughout the match.
As they advance to the next stage of the tournament, Bayern Munich will need to maintain this level of performance against tougher opponents. Their upcoming quarter-final match against PSG promises to be a thrilling encounter between two European heavyweights.
With Harry Kane finding top form and the team showing depth and composure, Bayern look well-prepared for the challenges ahead in their quest for the Club World Cup title.
