Bayern Munich Blog Series—1
Hi, I’m Olivia! I’ve been a huge Bayern Munich fan for years, and I’m so excited to start this blog series. Every week during the season I’ll be sharing updates, match reactions, and my own thoughts about the team. Bayern is my favorite club and writing about them is something I really enjoy, so I can’t wait to bring you along for the journey.Matchday Report | September 20, 2025
Hoffenheim 1–4 Bayern Munich
Big away win, three intense days
Last week, Bayern went to Sinsheim only three days after their victory over Chelsea and still managed to perform at a very high level. Hoffenheim started with strong pressing and created early problems, even forcing an unusual mistake from Manuel Neuer. However, Bayern stayed patient, and just before halftime Harry Kane scored from a corner delivered by 17-year-old Lennart Karl, who was making his first Bundesliga start. This goal completely changed the momentum of the match. In the second half Kane added two penalties and Serge Gnabry scored late, giving Bayern an important 4–1 away win.
Rotation with a plan
Vincent Kompany rotated the squad but still kept balance in the lineup. The midfield pairing of Laimer and Pavlović struggled at first against Hoffenheim’s pressing, but the team gradually adapted. By halftime the structure was stronger, and Kane’s goal gave Bayern the confidence to play with more control. Kompany’s approach showed that rotation can succeed if the team remains disciplined and patient.
Kane the complete forward
Kane not only finished his chances but also played an important role in linking attacks. He often dropped deeper to connect passes and switch the play with long balls, which helped Bayern escape pressure. His two penalties in the second half were taken with great composure, and he also set a Bundesliga record with seventeen successful penalties to start his league career. This shows both his reliability and his importance as a leader in the attack.
Back line leadership
Kim Min-jae was one of the key players in defense, especially in the first half when Bayern’s midfield was losing control. He blocked shots, cleared dangerous crosses, and gave the back line stability when the team needed it most. Performances like this shows how important he is to Bayern’s defensive structure.
Youth minutes that matter
Karl’s first start was not flawless, but it was very encouraging. He lost the ball at times under pressure, but he kept playing with confidence and created the opening goal with a well-placed corner. Experiences like this are valuable for young players, and giving him opportunities now can help Bayern develop depth for the future.
Whistle and VAR
The referee, Robert Hartmann, made two key penalty decisions for Bayern after long VAR checks. One came after a handball in the box and the other after Michael Olise was fouled. The process felt slow and disrupted the flow of the game, which has become a common issue in Bundesliga matches.
GAME Highlights
⚽ Kane hat trick including two penalties, with Gnabry adding the fourth
🎯 Karl’s corner assist broke the deadlock just before halftime
🛡️ Kim Min-jae’s defensive leadership kept Bayern steady under pressure
🔄 Kompany’s rotation worked well only three days after beating Chelsea
🤔Two penalties awarded after lengthy VAR reviews
My Thoughts & anticipation
From my perspective, Kompany handled this match very well. He rotated the squad but still kept leaders on the field, then used experienced players to secure control in the second half. The first phase of buildup still needs improvement, especially against teams that press high, but the overall resilience was impressive. With Chelsea already beaten in Europe and a perfect start in the league, Bayern now move into the international break with strong momentum. If the team can continue to rotate smartly, develop young players like Karl, and rely on Kane’s form, they have every chance to make this season a successful one in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
