Did Bayern Lack the Momentum to Secure a Goal Against Benfica?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bayern lacked decisive momentum in their match.
- Manuel Neuer emphasized the importance of intensity.
- Benfica’s goalkeeper played a crucial role in the match.
- Bayern's second-half performance was more promising.
- Upcoming match against Flamengo will test Bayern's resilience.
Charlotte, June 25 (NationPress) Following Bayern Munich's 1-0 defeat to SL Benfica in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer acknowledged that the team was missing the crucial momentum needed to score. He noted that the intensity displayed in the second half was absent in the first.
Bayern controlled possession early on, yet struggled to generate significant chances. SL Benfica took an early lead with a goal from Andreas Schjelderup, while their goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin, made key saves in the second half. Despite a strong resurgence, Bayern was unable to overcome the deficit in Charlotte.
"Our early performance lacked the same intensity that we showed later. We missed several opportunities and their goalkeeper was exceptional. Today, we were missing that decisive momentum to find the back of the net. We need to critically assess our first half," Neuer remarked.
"Nevertheless, the second half performance was a reflection of Bayern Munich’s true spirit. We acknowledge the challenging conditions, as it was extremely hot, but we do not wish to make excuses."
With this victory, Benfica topped Group C and will face Chelsea, the Group D runners-up, in Charlotte on June 28. Bayern’s loss sets them up for a Round of 16 clash against CR Flamengo from Brazil, who have impressed many, scheduled for June 29 in Miami.
"Entering the knockout stages as group runners-up gives us a chance to build on our second half performance. If we can maintain this level of intensity for 90 minutes in the next match, I am confident we will succeed," said Neuer.
“We must start our next game against Flamengo with intensity. My optimism stems from our second-half display and the chances we created. If we can replicate that for a full match, I believe we will have a successful tournament," he added.