Sizzling Defeat, Group Position on the Line: FC Bayern Sputters Against Benfica in Club World Cup
FC Bayern facing distress due to unrelenting heat and persistent damper issues
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Loss in Group Stage:In the intense heat of Charlotte, a lackluster FC Bayern trail Benfica Lisbon for a considerable period and suffer a defeat. It's only after the break that the Munich team starts to show some life, but they can't convert their opportunities. Ultimately, the group win is lost - and tough competitors await.
Harry Kane and Co. Nurse Sweaty Brows:Following a disappointing 0:1 (0:1) against Benfica in the Club World Cup, FC Bayern are the second team in Group C. The Munich squad, sluggish in the first half, had to pay the price for the oppressive temperatures and can only advance to the Round of 16.
Next on the Schedule:The Brazilian powerhouse Flamengo awaits on Sunday (22:00 CET/DAZN, Sat.1, and in the ntv.de live ticker) in Miami Gardens, who also beat FC Chelsea in Group D (3:1). In the quarterfinals, it could be a clash with Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain or Inter Miami with world star Lionel Messi.
The Norwegian's Sneaky Kick:Andreas Schjelderup (13.) scored the first win for Benfica against Bayern in their 14th encounter. After debutant Tom Bischof is subbed off in the second half, the Munich team shows some signs of life but misses several good chances. Leroy Sané misses multiple times from close range. On the bright side, the Bayern team has secured around 40 million euros in prize money.
The Temperatures Were Sweating Too:With temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius and the grass feeling like it had hot feet, the conditions at the Bank of America Stadium were demanding. "I don't want to complain," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany, "but that will affect the game. I already have it in my head that it won't be as easy as we believe at home."
Line-up Changes:Therefore, the Belgian made seven changes compared to the 2:1 win against Boca Juniors. The new players, including Bischof, were expected to bring "energy". Regulars like Joshua Kimmich, Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, or Harry Kane could initially stay in the cabin to watch the game on TV, protected from the heat.
Benfica's Lead:Outside, Benfica took control against a disoriented Bayern defense. Bayern captain Manuel Neuer could still parry a shot from veteran Ángel Di María (9.), but when Sacha Boey dozed off in the back of the defense, Schjelderup scored from 11 meters.
Bayern's Wishful Thinking:Unable to crack the Benfica defense, Kompany pleads from the sidelines. The Munich players are collectively too slow, struggling to keep up with loose balls. Despite a drinking break after half an hour, the players suffer greatly due to the sweltering heat.
Chances Slipped Away:Just before the break, Bayern had their first real chance: After a beautiful setup by Serge Gnabry, Sané shoots the ball well over the goal (44.). At the restart, Kompany brings on Kimmich, Olise, and Kane, among others, with Bischof having to make way. Immediately, there is more zip, with two-on-one battles becoming more intense. Kimmich shines as a strategist, Sané (51.) misses again. On the other side, Neuer also saves against Kerem Aktürkoglu (56.). The supposed equalizer by driving Kimmich (61) doesn't count, as Kane is offside.
Misfortune on the Grass:Bayern then ratchets up pressure on Benfica, persisting despite the harsh conditions. Sané (87), after Kane's pass, finds his match in goalkeeper Anatolij Trubin once again.
Upcoming Matches:FC Bayern Munich will face the winners of Group D in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, depending on who wins Group D. This match could be against CR Flamengo, Chelsea FC, or Espérance Tunis.
Sources: ntv.de, dbe/sid* FC Bayern Munich* Benfica Lisbon* Club World Cup 2025
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive pertaining to the Club World Cup, given the unexpected results and future implications. Despite the European-leagues premier-league caliber of FC Bayern, their performance in the football domain of the ongoing Club World Cup has been lackluster, with the sports team losing a significant group position to Benfica Lisbon.
