Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany praised his team’s defensive resilience after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday. The result kept Bayern eight points clear at the top of the league table, despite a rare game where the Bavarians spent most of the match defending rather than dominating possession.
A Rare Defensive Masterclass
Known for their attacking flair, Bayern Munich faced a relentless Bayer Leverkusen side that pressed high and controlled the game. Kompany admitted his team had to adapt: “We always want to dominate, but Leverkusen earned the right to make us defend. Today was about mentality, and the players delivered”.
The clean sheet marked a turnaround for Bayern, who had conceded 10 goals in their previous five matches. Kompany highlighted the importance of this defensive shift: “We’ve had games where we scored many goals, but today showed we can grind out results too”.
Harry Kane’s Silent Influence
While Bayern’s attack was quieter than usual, star striker Harry Kane drew praise for his work ethic. Kompany, who once faced Kane as a player, called him “a model professional” and emphasized his role in relieving pressure: “Harry’s movement and hold-up play gave us stability. Even when he isn’t scoring, he’s vital”. Kane, who has netted 55 Bundesliga goals this season, remains central to Bayern’s title push.
Tactical Adjustments Under Pressure
Kompany’s tactical approach has faced scrutiny this season, particularly Bayern’s high-pressing system. While the team boasts Europe’s third-best defensive record (0.77 expected goals against per game), critics point to vulnerabilities when opponents exploit gaps between their aggressive press and defensive lines.
Against Leverkusen, Bayern adjusted by prioritizing compactness over their usual attacking fluidity. Full-backs stayed deeper, and midfielders like Joshua Kimmich focused on disrupting Leverkusen’s buildup. This pragmatism reflects Kompany’s adaptability: “We learn from every match. Today proved we can win battles, not just beauty contests”.
Champions League Momentum
The draw followed Bayern’s 2-1 Champions League playoff win over Celtic, where Kompany’s men silenced a roaring 60,000-strong crowd in Glasgow. Goals from Michael Olise and Harry Kane sealed the victory, though a late Celtic goal tested Bayern’s nerves. Kompany called the result “a huge step” but warned: “We must stay focused. Every game now is a final”.
