Bayern Munich sealed an emphatic and satisfying victory against reigning UCL champions Paris Saint-Germain. The 1-2 victory was a generous outcome for PSG in what could have been a bloodbath had Luis Diaz not received a red card in the first half. However, defending a slim lead against a potent side with a man down for an entire half was the biggest takeaway of the night. Captain Manuel Neuer disclosed how Bayern managed to hold the fort and seal the win.

Champions League nights are emotional affairs to say the least. The adrenaline and passions run high. Despite being professionals, the players are not immune to the effect of big games. A slip up in judgement or a lapse in self-control can and certainly will lead to red cards leaving sides with a man or two down that can screw up the team’s efforts. However, Bayern’s manager foresaw an extreme situation such as tackles or fights breaking out that could get worse by the officiating. And, keeping that possibility in mind, made sure that the team is prepared.

“Enjoy defending”

Bayern usually dominate possession and use their defensive skills to cut off runs or win back the ball. However, a rare sight to see is the Bavarians sit back and absorb attack after attack in hopes to run down the clock. But, when the need arises, it can be a potent tool in the kit.

The time this old knight got pizza'd by Cesc Fabregas

How angry would you have to be to use delicious, gooey, cheesy pizza as a weapon? If your first thought is, "I would never weaponize that sweet treat," then congratulations - you are a good person. Unfortunately, not all are like you. In 2004, Arsenal visited Manchester United. They brought with them an unbeaten streak of 49 matches - quite impressive regardless of how much you know about soccer (pronounced "football" outside of the US). These teams had a bit of bad blood between them, basically battling as bewildered bystanders basked in their beauty. This time though, it spilled over to after the game. We've already told you what happens (pizza toss, sorry, spoiler), but enjoy this journey into a seemingly fictional land where some fool would throw away such a delicious treat, all in the name of rivalry.

Tonight such a need did arise and Bayern had to defend a two goal lead with 10 men. Manager VK said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia): “Being able to defend with 10 men is another token we can take with us into the season. It’s not something we want to do - but when there’s a situation like today with the red card, I want that we also enjoy defending. That’s part of football. Even though we don’t have to defend a lot in other games, we practice these situations a lot in training.”

The Captain concurs

After seizing an important win in Parisian territory, the Bayern captain spoke (as captured by @iMiaSanMia) about the wilder half of the game. He said “We showed in the first half that we were the better team. In the second half things were different due to the red card. We had to fight with 10 men. We practiced such situations in training and were prepared. It wasn’t easy for our attackers in the second half because they were outnumbers. But we defended very well”.

The former defender turned coach Vincent Kompany deserves a lot of praise. He has improved the backline as a unit as well as individual players. Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah in particular have really hit a new level under VK. His expertise as a decorated defender has had a big positive impact on the backline.

Laimer deserves a big shoutout, for the fight he brought and the absolute jack of all trades performance he put in. Passing, crossing, tackles, duels, runs into the box, this man is indispensable for Bayern. Josip Staniši? had another solid night. Overall a fantastic defensive show.

From free flowing attack to parking the bus, Kompany has demonstrated the multiple dimensions and balance he can strike. He has truly made Bayern brilliant to watch again.

Bayern Munich pulled out a wild 2-1 victory in a game that will be talked about quite a bit. So, why don’t we kick it off. This is what we have on tap for this edition of the Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show: (Bavarian Football)