Bayern Munich: Takeaways from 2-1 win over Celtic in Glasgow | OneFootball

On Wednesday night, Bayern Munich returned from Celtic Park with a slender 2-1 victory over the reigning Scottish Champions Celtic in the first leg of their European Champions League play-off tie.

Notwithstanding the hostile environment, the visitors did well in controlling the tempo for most of the game and withstanding a valiant late charge from the hosts. Courtesy of the victory, and with the return leg scheduled for next Tuesday at the Allianz Arena, the six-time champions of Europe’s most prestigious club competition are now firm favourites to advance to the round of 16. Let us look at some of the major takeaways from Bayern’s crucial 2-1 victory in Scotland.

Midfield control was a key factor for Bayern to halt attempted counter-attacks

Despite the home team settling comfortably early on into a well-organized defensive low block, apart from the opening minute when Celtic had a goal ruled out for offside, Bayern were seldom troubled in the first half. During the first 45 minutes, Manuel Neuer didn’t have a save to make as Bayern enjoyed 65% ball possession.

A key component of Bayern’s first-half domination was the play of Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka at the heart of the Bayern midfield. Neither player did anything too spectacular, but they both read the game well. The German duo's accurate positioning and pressing prevented the opposition from launching any threat on the counter-attack.

In addition to delivering the corner from which Harry Kane volleyed home Bayern’s second goal, Kimmich was also astute in choosing when to drop back between the center-backs to relieve pressure and commence build-up play. Bayern’s opening goal in first-half added time was indirectly a result of the midfield duo’s good work on and off the ball as it allowed Dayot Upamecano time and space to measure an excellent long ball to Michael Olise who opened the scoring with aplomb.