Bayern's resilient display steadies record champions in Madrid
Harry Kane stood on the left, applauding as Konrad Laimer struck, while a depleted Bayern Munich overcame Atlético Madrid 2‑0 at Madrid’s Estadio Metropolitano, with goals from Lennart Karl and Laimer sealing the win in a match that marked a strong statement for the German record champions.
The win was a strong statement for a weakened side at their dream venue. The German record champions delivered a dominant performance that puts them back on course in the Champions League group.
Young star Lennart Karl, recently criticised by Uli Hoeneß, opened the scoring in the 54th minute. Konrad Laimer added a second goal in the 74th minute.
Dayot Upamecano saw a potential third goal ruled out for a supposed foul by referee Francois Letexier in the 81st minute. Laimer said the squad showed confidence over 90 minutes and the win gives momentum for the coming weeks.
Champions League standing and upcoming fixtures
After two recent draws, Bayern now have eight points in the Champions League group, narrowing the gap to the leaders. Before Christmas, the favourites can add points against Lille on 25 November and Slavia Prague on 8 December.
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Harry Kane warned that a big fight awaits Bayern, who are still without coach Vincent Kompany and players Luis Díaz, Jamal Musiala, Ismael Saibari and Serge Gnabry. Kane also supplied the assist for Laimer's goal.
Assistant coach Aaron Danks could rely on Michael Olise and captain Manuel Neuer, who missed the previous five games with a foot injury and was replaced by Jonas Urbig. At 40, Neuer made his 164th Champions League appearance, becoming the sole German record holder ahead of Thomas Müller.
Olise, who had knee problems in a 2‑2 draw with Borussia Dortmund, was fit again for the match. He played in a depleted attacking line behind Kane, alongside Karl and Alphonso Davies, who moved left forward.
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Tom Bischof was preferred over Aleksandar Pavlovic in defence alongside Joshua Kimmich. The match began with a minute of silence for a recent train disaster and the death of Jesús de Miguel, and both teams played with mourning symbols. Atlético had the better start, but Julian Álvarez missed a close-range chance early in the game.