How Bayern clinched last-16 spot against Boca Juniors

When Vincent Kompany looked ahead to the clash against Boca Juniors in the press conference, the head coach suggested it would probably feel a bit like an away game. And a look around the stands at the sold-out Hard Rock Stadium revealed that the majority of the crowd in the Hispanic-heavy Miami were in favour of the Argentinians. Blue and yellow, the Boca colours, was both visible and audible all around.

Kompany’s credo

Boca’s 12th man was supposed to give the South Americans added motivation to bring the favourites from Europe to their knees. Bayern had other ideas, though, and were perfectly prepared by their coach. “I said to the lads, no one should have greater motivation in the tournament, no team and no single player,” explained Kompany. “We want to be Bayern Munich and win.”

The team carried out his instructions to perfection and secured their place in the next round with a 2-1 victory over Boca. “We had to work a lot today but we got the job done – we’re in the last 16 and I’m really pleased about that,” said the 39-year-old at full time. His players “controlled the emotions in the game”, resisting the tough approach of the opponents, spurred on by their supporters.

Konrad Laimer even had fun, as he explained after. “That’s exactly what the Club World Cup is for: to play against clubs like this, it’s just something different,” said the Austrian. “There’s a bit more fire in it sometimes, also a bit more provocation from one or two, but on the whole it was a very decent performance from us.” Jonathan Tah took a similar view. “We implemented our game plan well, didn't get too involved and didn't let the game get out of hand,” analysed the centre-back.

Too little out of dominant first half

The German record champions dominated from the off in Florida. After Michael Olise’s goal directly from a corner was ruled out by VAR because of a foul by Serge Gnabry, Harry Kane put the Reds in front in the 18th minute. Kingsley Coman and Olise squandered the best chances to extend the lead shortly after in one-v-ones against Boca keeper Agustín Marchesín. Manuel Neuer then had to demonstrate his reflexes to stop Kevin Zenón’s attempt. At the end of the first half, 72 percent possession and 7-4 shots on goal reflected the Bavarians’ dominance – but they only had a narrow lead to show for it.

“The first half was really good, we should have been two or three up,” said goalscorer Kane, who was also named Player of the Match. Those missed chances meant the roars of encouragement from the Boca fans didn’t quieten down yet and the Xeneize were able to get themselves back in the game. Bayern continued to dominate on the pitch but Boca managed to land one crucial blow. After a Munich loss of possession, Miguel Merentiel got the better of the FCB defence and netted the surprising equaliser. It was the first goal conceded by the German record champions in their ninth match in the Club World Cup/Intercontinental Cup.

Defiant in the face of opposition

That wasn’t the only setback for Kompany’s men, though. Twenty-five minutes after coming on, Jamal Musiala – having only recently returned from injury – limped off. “I really want to speak with the doctors first,” said Kompany after the final whistle. “We’ll fly to Orlando first and will know more tomorrow. I hope it’s nothing serious.” But the team withstood the blow and got the deserved winner in the 84th minute courtesy of Olise. “Yes, we conceded a goal but we stayed calm, and the way we saw the game out was very mature,” praised Kompany.

Having booked their place in the round of 16, FCB will now battle it out with Benfica for top spot in Group C on Tuesday (21:00 CEST). “We go into the match against Benfica with a good feeling,” summarised captain Manuel Neuer. “We want to put in another good performance there and get the three points.” It’s clear: Kompany’s words are having the intended effect.

All FIFA Club World Cup matches are being broadcast live and for free by streaming service DAZN, although broadcasters will differ in some countries.

 

All the post-match reaction: