FC Bayern were the dominant side in their opening Club World Cup encounter with Auckland City.
It took French winger Kingsley Coman a grand total of six minutes to register the opening goal of the tournament (with new signing Jonathan Tah providing the assist).
If any were hoping for an early giant-killing, however, the gulf was clearly demonstrated by the half-time whistle, with Vincent Kompany’s men five goals up at the break.
Football fans ‘uncomfortable’ with Bayern going strong
Bayern Munich really can’t win in this situation.
A couple of football fans were left a little ‘uncomfortable’ as they observed the Bundesliga champions demolish their opposition in the opening 45 minutes.
Sam was quoted on BBC Sport’s live coverage: “I know Bayern didn’t choose who they play, but I do feel perhaps putting out this 11 was perhaps not the most sporting thing to do. Then again, would they have been blasted for not playing their strongest 11…. Either way…. this match makes uncomfortable viewing.”
Shaun added: “Watching Bayern tear apart a bunch of part-timers is just not it and the sooner FIFA realise it, the better. This isn’t entertainment at all, let’s not kid ourselves otherwise.”
Neil disagreed: “Shaun (17.35) is right up to a point. But for anyone connected with Auckland City this is one the best days of their footballing lives.”
Richard, likewise, provided a contrasting view, whilst rightly referencing the rather sizeable prize money up for grabs: “Neil – (17:45) I can’t disagree but isn’t that what a pre-season friendly is for, not a competition with a prize of £100m for the winners?”
As “Sam” rightly pointed out, we can’t imagine Kompany would have escaped scrutiny playing a team largely comprised of academy options.
That said, given the quality of the opposition on offer – with all due respect to Auckland City – the Belgian head coach may as well have rested a few of his key stars.
How did Bayern get on against Auckland statistically?
As expected, the German champions showcased total control of proceedings in the first half with 70.6% possession and gathering 40 touches in the Auckland penalty box.
The New Zealand-based outfit didn’t manage a single touch in the Bayern box (nor a single shot) in the same period.
Bayern Munich’s first-half stats vs Auckland City
- 15 shots (nine on target)
- 217 successful final third passes (to Auckland’s four)
- 474 touches (to Auckland’s 266)
Who are Auckland City?
Auckland City hail from New Zealand and secured entry into the Club World Cup owing to their long-term domination of Oceania’s Champions League.
They are the most successful team in the latter competition, having won it 13 times.
Auckland compete in the Northern League.
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