Bayern Edge Out Wolfsburg in Thrilling Bundesliga Opener
Bayern Munich secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over VfL Wolfsburg in their opening Bundesliga clash on Sunday, giving new manager Vincent Kompany a winning start to his reign.
Wolfsburg started brightly, but it was the visitors who created the better chances in the first half. A clever run down the right by French full-back Sacha Boey set up Jamal Musiala for an easy tap-in, putting Bayern ahead.
The Bavarians struggled in the second half, however, gifting Wolfsburg a penalty when Tiago Tomas was fouled by Boey. Lovro Majer confidently dispatched the spot-kick, equalising for the hosts.
Wolfsburg continued to press and found their reward in the 55th minute when Patrick Wimmer squared the ball for Majer, who slotted home his second of the match to put Wolfsburg in the lead.
Bayern were thrown a lifeline when Jakub Kaminski inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net, bringing the score level. However, it was Serge Gnabry who emerged as the hero, securing all three points for Bayern with a well-taken strike into the corner in the 82nd minute. The goal was set up by a clever pass from new signing Harry Kane.
Kane and another new arrival, Michael Olise, impressed throughout the match, creating numerous chances for Bayern. Wolfsburg goalkeeper Kamil Grabara, however, made several brilliant saves to deny the duo.
Thomas Müller, who equalled a club record with his 709th competitive appearance for Bayern, entered the fray as a substitute in the 65th minute and provided a crucial spark for his side.
Bayern, who finished a disappointing third last season, appointed former Burnley manager Kompany as their new head coach following the departure of Thomas Tuchel. The reigning German champions will be looking to reclaim the Bundesliga title after being dethroned by Bayer Leverkusen last season.
