Bayern Munich returned to Bundesliga action with a frustrating 2-2 draw away at Hamburger SV, exposing some defensive vulnerabilities despite a point earned. Standout individual efforts from players like Harry Kane and Luis Díaz helped salvage the result in a match marked by Hamburg's youthful ambition. The game highlighted Bayern's struggles in midfield and reliance on veterans.
Bayern Munich faced Hamburger SV in an away Bundesliga fixture following their Champions League draw stage, ending in a tense 2-2 stalemate that raised concerns about the team's form. The match, played on January 31, 2026, saw Hamburg leverage their home advantage, with the young side pushing Bayern into difficult positions throughout.
Hamburg's 18-year-old center-back Luka Vušković, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, shone brightly, scoring a phenomenal header after a well-built play and demonstrating talent and passion. Bayern's Alphonso Davies earned praise for a crucial goal-line clearance in the 75th minute, sliding to deny Fábio Vieira on a counter-attack when Manuel Neuer was out of position. Returning from an ACL tear, Davies also contributed with recovery runs and ball wins.
At 40, Manuel Neuer transcended his goalkeeper role, acting as a midfield stabilizer amid a lackluster performance from Joshua Kimmich and Aleksander Pavlović. Neuer positioned high up the pitch, aiding distribution, regaining possession, and breaking counters, though the high line exposed vulnerabilities.
Harry Kane stepped up in the gloomy affair, scoring in the 42nd minute with brute strength after a pass from Kimmich, compensating for an earlier penalty deficit. Kane's defensive work and chance creation maintained possession under pressure, embodying his all-around value beyond just goals.
Subbed on in the second half, Luis Díaz transformed Bayern's attack, scoring within 50 seconds through a quick turn and shot following a cross from Michael Olise via Serge Gnabry. His impact underscored the need to start him regularly to support Kane.
Overall, the draw revealed alarming red flags for Bayern, who struggled to dominate despite aggressive pushes.
