Bayern Munich Hold Firm to Edge Freiburg 2-1 and Stay Top

Bayern Munich were made to work hard for the second consecutive week, but the Bundesliga leaders showed their class once again, grinding out a 2-1 victory over Freiburg at the Europa-Park Stadion. In a match where chances were at a premium, Bayern’s efficiency proved the difference as they maintained their position at the top of the table.

The visitors took the lead in the 23rd minute thanks to Harry Kane’s brilliance. The English striker turned expertly away from Philipp Lienhart on the right flank before firing a powerful low shot past Noah Atubolu for his 17th league goal of the season. The first half remained tight, with Freiburg’s organized defense limiting Bayern’s opportunities to extend their advantage.

Bayern’s second goal came early in the second half, courtesy of a set piece. Joshua Kimmich delivered a perfectly placed corner from the left, which Kim Min-jae headed in from close range in the 54th minute. Freiburg’s goalkeeper Atubolu protested, but the goal stood, and Bayern appeared to be in control.

However, Freiburg refused to back down. In the 68th minute, they pulled a goal back through their own set-piece routine. Ritsu Doan floated an inviting corner into the box, and Matthias Ginter rose above Kim to direct his header into the bottom-left corner, leaving Manuel Neuer stranded.

The hosts came close to finding an equalizer, particularly in the final moments. Gregoritsch had the best chance to level the score, but his effort narrowly missed the left post, much to the relief of Bayern’s defense. Despite Freiburg’s spirited performance, they were left to rue missed opportunities, particularly as they exceeded their 0.35 expected goals (xG) with a determined attacking display.

Bayern, meanwhile, showed their clinical edge, converting two of their limited chances to outperform their xG of 0.54. While the Bavarians were far from their free-flowing best, their ability to grind out results highlights the resilience of Thomas Tuchel’s side as they continue their pursuit of the Bundesliga title.

The victory keeps Bayern atop the table, while Freiburg drop to ninth. Next up, Bayern face Mainz at home as they look to extend their lead, while Freiburg will seek to bounce back when they take on Eintracht Frankfurt.