On August 22, 2014, Bayern Munich faced Wolfsburg in the opening match of the 2014-2015 Bundesliga season at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Bayern Munich secured a 2-1 victory to start their campaign with a win, although Wolfsburg provided a strong challenge.
Key Statistics and Analysis
- Scoreline and Goal Timings:
- Bayern Munich: 2 (Thomas Müller 37′, Arjen Robben 47′)
- Wolfsburg: 1 (Ivica Olić 52′)
- Possession:
- Bayern Munich controlled the match with 67% possession, while Wolfsburg had 33%. Bayern’s dominance in possession allowed them to dictate the pace of the game, though Wolfsburg remained competitive throughout.
- Shots:
- Bayern Munich registered 15 shots, with 7 on target, reflecting their attacking intent and ability to create chances. Wolfsburg managed 10 shots, with 4 on target, showing they were dangerous on the counter-attack despite having less possession.
- Passing Accuracy:
- Bayern Munich had a passing accuracy of 88%, completing 636 passes out of 721 attempts. Wolfsburg had a passing accuracy of 73%, completing 224 passes out of 307 attempts. Bayern’s superior passing and ball retention were key to controlling the game, although Wolfsburg’s more direct approach led to some dangerous moments.
- Defensive Statistics:
- Bayern Munich made 10 tackles compared to Wolfsburg’s 18, with Wolfsburg putting in a strong defensive effort to disrupt Bayern’s attacking play. Bayern’s defense, led by Jérôme Boateng and Dante, managed to contain Wolfsburg’s threats for most of the match.
- Set Pieces:
- Bayern Munich’s first goal came from open play. In the 37th minute, Thomas Müller scored after a scramble in the box, finishing from close range to give Bayern the lead. Shortly after halftime, Arjen Robben doubled the lead in the 47th minute with a well-placed shot after cutting inside from the right. Wolfsburg pulled a goal back in the 52nd minute through Ivica Olić, who struck a superb curling shot from outside the box that went in off the crossbar, giving Wolfsburg hope of a comeback.
- Individual Performances:
- Thomas Müller and Arjen Robben were key performers for Bayern Munich, both getting on the scoresheet and consistently threatening Wolfsburg’s defense. Robben, in particular, was a constant danger with his dribbling and shooting. For Wolfsburg, Ivica Olić was the standout, scoring a brilliant goal and working hard to trouble Bayern’s defense.
- Tactical Overview:
- Bayern Munich, managed by Pep Guardiola, employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on controlling possession and utilizing the width provided by wingers. Wolfsburg, under Dieter Hecking, used a 4-2-3-1 formation as well, but with a focus on quick counter-attacks and direct play. Bayern’s ability to maintain possession and create opportunities from wide areas was crucial in their victory.
- Disciplinary:
- The match saw two yellow cards, both for Wolfsburg (Ricardo Rodríguez 40′, Josuha Guilavogui 65′). The fouls were mainly tactical, aimed at disrupting Bayern’s rhythm and preventing further chances.
- Corners and Offsides:
- Bayern Munich won 7 corners compared to Wolfsburg’s 2, reflecting their territorial advantage and continuous pressure in the final third. Both teams were caught offside twice, indicating their attempts to push forward and create scoring opportunities.
Summary
Bayern Munich’s 2-1 victory over Wolfsburg in the opening match of the 2014-2015 Bundesliga season was a solid start for the reigning champions. Thomas Müller and Arjen Robben were instrumental in securing the win, with both players finding the back of the net in a game that saw Bayern dominate possession and create the better chances.
Wolfsburg, despite being on the back foot for much of the match, remained competitive and pulled a goal back through a stunning strike from Ivica Olić. However, they were unable to find an equalizer, as Bayern’s control of the game ultimately proved too strong.
Pep Guardiola’s Bayern Munich displayed their usual possession-based style, with quick, precise passing and effective use of width to stretch Wolfsburg’s defense. Wolfsburg’s more direct approach and counter-attacking threat made for a competitive match, but Bayern’s quality in key moments made the difference.
The result set the tone for Bayern Munich’s season, as they began their title defense with a hard-earned victory. For Wolfsburg, the match showed their potential to challenge the top teams, but also highlighted the areas where they needed to improve to compete consistently at the highest level.
