Bayern Munich Women's Slip-up Allows Wolfsburg to Seize Bundesliga Lead
In an unexpected twist, VfL Wolfsburg managed to outmaneuver FC Bayern Munich and assume the top spot in the Bundesliga table before the winter break. The underdogs scored a late winner against Werder Bremen, while the champions stumbled against newly-promoted 1. FC Nürnberg, allowing Wolfsburg to capitalize on Bayern's slip-up.
The Wolves' AOK Stadium played host to the decisive clash, where Dominique Janssen secured the 1:0 victory for VfL with a misplaced cross in the 83rd minute. The game saw a mix of determination and fortune, as Werder Bremen almost took the lead in the first half, only to have their goal disallowed for foul play. Vice-captain Michelle Ulbrich struck the post moments after the break, leaving VfL with an advantage they would not relinquish.
Coach Tommy Stroot was understandably relieved as he reflected on the match, acknowledging that his team had to find a balance between attacking ambition and tactical simplicity to secure the crucial win. For Stroot, these types of victories are invaluable as they help build momentum and maintain a competitive edge throughout the season.
Meanwhile, the mood in the FC Bayern Munich camp was far from euphoric. They started the game with a five-player rotation, which included five national team players on the bench. Despite taking an early lead through Lea Schüller, Bayern's lackluster finishing cost them dearly. The visitors almost snatched an improbable draw when outsider 1. FC Nürnberg displayed remarkable resilience and determination, ultimately celebrating the point as if they'd won the game against one of the world's top teams.
With the men's team comfortably leading the Bundesliga, the inconsistent form of the FC Bayern Munich Women's team contrasts starkly. Past performances against VfL Wolfsburg suggest that the defending champions will need to regroup and find their form if they're to reclaim their place at the top of the table after the winter break.
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VfL Wolfsburg did not necessarily take advantage of FC Bayern Munich's slip-up to challenge their position at the top of the Bundesliga table before the winter break. While Wolfsburg came close to taking the lead in the second half of the season, they ultimately finished the first half in second place, just two points behind Bayern.
The closest the Wolves came to challenging the champions was a 2-2 draw against Holstein Kiel on January 24, 2025, and a 2-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart on February 15, 2025. Bayern's strong performances, including a 4-3 win over Holstein Kiel on February 1, 2025, kept them at the forefront of the Bundesliga standings.*
