Bayern Munich finds itself grappling with increased scrutiny after succumbing to a second successive loss, this time leaving them goalless in two consecutive matches. The recent defeat has intensified the spotlight on coach Thomas Tuchel and his squad as they prepare to return to Munich with heightened expectations to turn their fortunes around.
The match began with promise for Bayern, as Thomas Tuchel recounted the team’s strong start, highlighting early opportunities created by notable players such as Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala. “We started well, had a chance in the first minute and then with Harry Kane and then with Jamal Musiala. We had the game under control in the first half,” Tuchel reflected.
Despite the initial control, the second half saw a stark decline in Bayern’s performance, marred by individual errors and a loss of concentration that Tuchel admitted was entirely their responsibility. “But in the second our performance dropped inexplicably. We made too many individual errors and made our opponents stronger and we lost concentration. We lost our rhythm,” he lamented.
In the face of growing pressure, Tuchel appeared unfazed about his future with the team. “Worried about my future? No, I am not,” he stated confidently, even as questions about his leadership and the team’s direction loom large.
Bayern showcased their potential early in the game with Joshua Kimmich and Harry Kane narrowly missing the target, signaling a missed opportunity to dominate. The opposition, remembered for a 6-2 aggregate loss to Bayern three years prior in the same competition, showed resilience. A notable moment came from Luis Alberto, whose strike nearly challenged Bayern’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
As the game progressed, Bayern’s challenge against a well-organized Italian defense became evident, with their next significant opportunity not arising until the 40th minute when Musiala’s attempt soared over the bar. The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half when Lazio’s Isaksen, having only Neuer to beat, was thwarted by the keeper’s critical save.
The turning point came when Lazio was awarded a penalty, decisively converted by Immobile, placing Maurizio Sarri’s team in a favorable position ahead of the return leg in Munich scheduled for March 5. Immobile praised the team’s preparation and execution, “We worked and prepared for this match to have a say in it. I was convinced that the team would put everything out there.”
As Bayern Munich regroups for the upcoming challenge, the focus remains on overcoming their recent setbacks and reviving their campaign in the competition. With the return leg on the horizon, all eyes will be on Tuchel and his squad to see if they can reclaim their renowned form and silence their critics.
