Bayern Munich’s 3-1 Champions League victory over Slovan Bratislava was as deflating a clear win as they come.
The result leaves the Bavarians needing a play-off victory — against one of Manchester City or Celtic — to qualify for the Champions League knockouts. But Bayern would have needed an astronomical goals bonanza to take destiny back within their own hands, anyway.
“It’s weird when a win doesn’t feel like a win,” said Bayern starter and goal-scorer Thomas Müller after the match (as captured via @iMiaSanMia). “But we knew this could happen. It wasn’t in our hands. We brought this situation into ourselves with the defeat in Rotterdam last week. We go again on Saturday.”
Bayern returns to Bundesliga action on Saturday against newly promoted Holstein Kiel. In the meantime, the Champions League draw will occur on Friday, giving Bayern some time to stew over the possibilities of their next opponents.
Looking for further discussion about the game? If so, consider listening to our Postgame Show! Here’s what we have for you:
- A look at the starting XI and what was surprising. (Hint: Who needs center-backs?)
- A rundown of the scoring and substitutions.
- Some final thoughts and takeaways on the match.
Be sure to stay tuned to Bavarian Podcast Works for all of your up to date coverage on Bayern Munich and Germany. Check us out on Patreon and follow us on Twitter @BavarianFBWorks, @BavarianPodcast @TheBarrelBlog, @BFWCyler, @IredahlMarcus, @2012nonexistent, @TommyAdams71 and more.