Bayern keeps Bayer Leverkusen alive

Bayern Munich could not make a statement in the Bundesliga. Vincent Kompany's team only managed a 1-1 draw at home against Bayer Leverkusen in a match where they were superior but lacked accuracy. Xabi Alonso's team took the lead with a goal from Andrich, and Pavlovic equalized. The score did not change despite the locals' efforts, who remain leaders but missed a golden opportunity to weaken their main title rival.

And this was despite the festive atmosphere before the match even started. Bayern needed to step up. An enraged crowd at Oktoberfest knew it, and so did Kompany, who in just two months found the ideal structure for his team. His 4-5-1 formation is now well-known, with Kimmich in control, Musiala given freedom, and Olise and Gnabry supporting Kane. Everything fits perfectly. It doesn't matter even if things go wrong or if the opponent is as tough as granite.

Bayern dominated thanks to ball possession, overwhelmed their opponent, had three clear chances and watched in amazement as Bayer Leverkusen survived once again. Xabi Alonso's team withstood the pressure and found a reward with a right-footed shot from Andrich from the edge of the area on an isolated corner kick. That blow would have weakened the locals' foundations a year ago but now only changes the script slightly. Kompany's team recovered their fluidity and before halftime had already justified the ticket price with an outstanding right-footed shot from Pavlovic that deserves to be the highlight of Munich's festival.

After the restart, the siege continued. Bayern moved the ball from side to side, widened the pitch with Alphonso Davies' runs and kept adding players to their attack. Gnabry hit the post twice, Olise was denied by a sharp Hradecky and Bayern started to get frustrated. Kompany brought on Coman and the match reached its final minutes with the locals pushing hard but unable to score the winning goal. Bayern remains top of the Bundesliga but let Leverkusen escape alive after a display of resilience.