FC Bayern sent a clear message with its 2-0 away win at Atlético Madrid. Despite numerous injuries, the Munich team showed its best side in the Champions League and dominated the Spanish side for long stretches of the game. One of the key players was Konrad Laimer, whose goal to make it 2-0 sealed the victory. After the game, the Austrian sent a confident message to the critics.
Ahead of the match in Madrid, concerns were high for the German record champions. With Jamal Musiala, Luis Díaz, Serge Gnabry, and Ismael Saibari all out, several key offensive players were missing. Added to that were the two draws against Viking Stavanger and Arsenal, which had increased the pressure in the Champions League.
But the team led by interim coach Aaron Danks wasn’t fazed by any of it. After Lennart Karl opened the scoring in the 54th minute, Laimer sealed the deal in the closing stages. The 29-year-old was subsequently named Man of the Match.
Laimer Silences Doubts About the Bayern Roster
In an interview with Amazon Prime Video, the Austrian national team player made it clear that, despite the difficult personnel situation, the team had always been confident in its own quality. “We went into the game knowing what we’re capable of. A lot gets written, but even with players out, we’re very satisfied with the roster we have,” Laimer explained.
Bayern didn’t let the discussions about their personnel problems unsettle them. “We know what we’re capable of, and we put in a strong performance here over 90 minutes—we could even have scored more goals,” emphasized the defensive all-rounder.
Looking ahead to upcoming matches, Laimer also highlighted the significance of the victory. “These are three important points that will certainly give us another boost ahead of the next game against Mainz and the coming weeks.”
Laimer explains his goal against Atlético
The Austrian was once again one of the most prominent players on the field in Madrid.
With his willingness to run, aggressive pressing, and strength in one-on-one situations, Laimer was a key factor both defensively and offensively.
In the second half, he finally rewarded himself with the goal that made it 2-0. After winning the ball high up the field, Harry Kane set up the Austrian, who finished coolly from a tight angle. “It’s probably better to take your time and then finish calmly. I’m really happy to score a goal like that and help the team in the process,” Laimer explained.
His strong performance was subsequently recognized with the Player of the Match award.
For FC Bayern, the victory in Madrid was also of great importance in terms of the Champions League standings.
After four games, the Munich side now has eight points and has significantly improved its position in the race for a spot among the top eight teams in the group stage.
Before the next international break, the Bundesliga clash with 1. FSV Mainz 05 awaits this weekend.
Laimer hopes that Bayern can carry the momentum from Madrid forward. In any case, the convincing performance against Atlético showed that the record champions can compete at the highest level even with a squad depleted by injuries.