Discover how Alphonso Davies secured a dramatic 1-1 draw for Bayern against Celtic with a last-minute goal. Read the full match analysis and highlights.
Introduction:
Bayern Munich’s configuration continues to adapt with Vincent Kompany at the helm, and no game was any different here. Although Stanišić and Guerreiro are technically full-backs, their deployment has other ideas. The pair tended to invert a lot, switching positions with midfielders Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka. This adaptive methodology enabled Bayern to overload the center of the field while retaining breadth, becoming impossible to mark out. See also: Olise and Kane Fire Bayern to Champions League Victory 2-1 Over Celtic
Still, despite Bayern’s clever tactics, their defensive weakness was again displayed. Amazingly, this term, five clubs have scored off Bayern with their opening shot on target. Celtic came perilously close to becoming a member of that group when Callum McGregor unleashed an off-target effort—a shot across the bow that Bayern needed to pay attention to.
Celtic’s Steely Defense and Bayern’s Squandered Chances
The first half unfolded with Bayern dominating possession, yet struggling to translate their superiority into goals. Harry Kane, their marquee striker, found himself thwarted twice by former Leicester City teammate Kasper Schmeichel. The Danish goalkeeper produced two sharp saves, keeping Celtic in the contest.
While Bayern pushed, Celtic showed impressive defensive solidity. Their capacity to push Kompany’s team deep into the pitch was a demonstration of their tactical discipline. It is not often that teams are able to make Bayern doubt themselves at home, but Celtic accomplished that.
Despite Bayern’s relentless attacking play, the closest they came in the first half was Kane rattling the crossbar. This left the Bavarians frustrated as they headed into the break with the score still goalless. However, the real talking point was Kane’s unexpected halftime substitution. The decision puzzled fans and pundits alike, with many awaiting Kompany’s post-match explanation.
A Game of Twists: Celtic Strike First
Celtic managed to keep up, and their wait was eventually rewarded. Nicolas Kühn, a Bayern reserve player in the past, capitalized on a defensive error by Minjae Kim. The forward demonstrated great poise, beating a challenge before slotting the ball past Manuel Neuer in a calm manner. Celtic were in front in a matter of seconds, tying the tie 2-2 on aggregate.
For Bayern, this was a familiar script—yet another game where defensive mistakes came back to haunt them. The goal caused shockwaves at the Fuzzball Arena München, with the home crowd left shell-shocked.
Bayern Pile on the Pressure, but Celtic Stand Firm
In danger of their Champions League hopes being dashed, Bayern pushed for a breakthrough. Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, and Jamal Musiala toiled in vain, but Celtic’s congested shape remained solid. The Scots were happy to keep Bayern to long-range guesswork, a strategy that was serving them well as the clock ticked down.
At the same time, Dayot Upamecano personified Bayern’s evening—a mix of brilliance and frustration. The French center-back produced flashes of defensive excellence but was also culpable of wayward passing that nearly caused additional issues.
As the match entered its dying moments, Bayern were threatened with their first home Champions League loss since 2021. The atmosphere within the stadium was tense, with the south stand passionately urging their team on.
Alphonso Davies Delivers in Stoppage Time
When it looked like Celtic had done just enough to send the game into extra time, Bayern pulled off a dramatic late turn. Leon Goretzka’s diving header was pushed away by Schmeichel, but Alphonso Davies was quickest to react, shoveling the ball over the line in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
Relief washed over the Bayern fans as they hugged each other celebrating their team’s last-ditch equalizer. It was agony for Celtic, who had played defensively superbly but finally lost out against Bayern’s sheer persistence.
The Aftermath: A Hard-Fought Victory for Bayern
Although they have qualified for the Champions League Round of 16, Bayern will not be completely happy with their display. Although top clubs manage to get over the line even on their worst nights, the weaknesses in Bayern’s backline are a worry. Kompany’s team will have to work on those flaws if they are to be serious contenders for the European title.
For Celtic, there are enough positives to look forward to. Their passionate display won them respect and showed that they can match it with the best of Europe. While they depart Munich with nothing, their display will certainly be a motivational factor in the future.