Bayern Munich exploded with fearsome firepower from the outset of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Scoring an astounding 10 goals, Bayern Munich showcased their overwhelming presence. However, Kim Min-jae was unable to step onto the field again due to the effects of an Achilles injury.
The football statistics media, WhoScored.com, announced the best XI of the Club World Cup's first round on the 19th. The list included as many as six players from Bayern Munich, demonstrating the team's early dominance with numbers. Notably, center-back Jonathan Tah, who joined this season, made an impressive debut by being named on the list.
The best XI included Botafogo forward Jesus, along with Bayern Munich's Kingsley Coman, Jamal Musiala, Thomas Müller, and Michael Olise in midfield. The defense featured Fluminense's Lunga, Monterrey's Ramos, and Tai Boiy, while Inter Miami's Ustari was selected for the goal.
Bayern Munich achieved a resounding victory against Auckland City, winning 10-0 in the group stage match held on the 16th at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, U.S. This match set a record for the largest margin of victory in a single match in Club World Cup history and also established a new record for the 'most goals scored in a half' with five goals in the first half.
The highlight of the match was undoubtedly the substitute Musiala. Coming on in the 67th minute, he completed a hat trick in just 17 minutes, while Coman and Müller also recorded multiple goals, leading Bayern's scoring streak.
After the match, manager Kompany said, "The players approached the game with a sense of responsibility. Goal difference is an important factor in the group stage. I am satisfied with today's result," and added, "Especially Musiala's scene of not giving up on the ball and sprinting to take it was the most impressive of this match."
Meanwhile, Kim Min-jae was left off the roster for this match. Kicker reported, "Kim Min-jae is expected to return as early as July. He is still focused on rehabilitation due to an Achilles issue, and his chances of participating in the Club World Cup are low." Bayern Munich's top executives are also prioritizing his recovery.
Director General Max Eberl stated, "Kim Min-jae has been experiencing pain in his Achilles area for an extended period. His condition is gradually improving, and he is expected to resume training soon," adding, "With center-back resources like Upamecano, Kim Min-jae, Tah, Stanišić, and Ito, we are rich in options. Kim Min-jae must re-establish his place within the team competition."
Bild reported that Bayern Munich experimented with a new center-back combination by using Upamecano and Jonathan Tah together in this match. Indeed, both players entered the field simultaneously in the middle of the second half, hinting at the possibility of a future starting duo. Both players speak French, which highlights their strength in communication, potentially setting them apart from Kim Min-jae.
Tah also stated in an interview, "Upamecano is a player with strong physical attributes and quick reactions. We have many conversations off the field and are striving to understand each other better."
Bayern Munich will face Boca Juniors in the second group stage match scheduled for the 21st. Kim Min-jae's participation remains uncertain.
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