Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) opened the curtain for the Club World Cup in a scintillating fashion. Both sides were undefeated at home, enjoying resounding successes against visiting opponents at TQL Stadium. 21,152 passionate fans watched the events unfold, with most protesting the legislation of governance in the game of football.
Bayern Munich followed that up with an incredibly dominant performance, crushing Auckland City 10-0. Jamal Musiala was instrumental on the day, producing an electric performance for the German side. He pulled a masterful hat-trick within 17 minutes of the second stanza. Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman each scored brace, and Michael Olise punched in one more for good measure.
PSG handed Atletico Madrid an embarrassing defeat by a similar 4-0 scoreline. Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Senny Mayulu all scored to see the French side through. Korean forward Lee Kang-in sealed the win with a penalty kick. Atletico’s Antoine Griezmann had a notable chance to score but was thwarted by PSG’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The game turned dramatically in the 78th minute. Clement Lenglet of Atletico Madrid shows his second yellow card as a red card is brandished.
Enthusiastic supporters marched onto the pitch, carrying flags that loudly declared their displeasure with FIFA. In many ways, their voices articulated the increasing anger towards the state of international football governance. One banner read: “10 Years Baur Au Lac – World Football Is More Poorly Governed than Before!” while another urged viewers to “Smash FIFA!” These messages alluded to the infamous 2015 raid by U.S. law enforcement at a Zurich hotel and showcased the fans’ desire for accountability within football’s governing bodies.
PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite the challenging conditions.
“We did a very good game; it is difficult with this temperature. We did well against a tough team; we controlled all of the game. We are happy with the result,” – Luis Enrique.
The vibe inside TQL Stadium was exuberant as the supporters of Bayern Munich celebrated their team lifting the trophy. Their stunning win was a pretty astounding opening act to the three-woman squad’s historic run in the tournament. Enrique reflected on the special support from the home crowd, as well, stating,
“The toughest thing to do in football is to maintain the level, and that is what I try to do.”
Both sides will aim to continue where they left off in their respective opening matches as the tournament progresses. The style Bayern Munich and PSG employed early in the competition had absolutely dazzled fans with their attacking prowess. Their formidable defense has raised the bar for the rest of the Club World Cup.
“I think every single player showed their best quality to the team.”
The atmosphere at TQL Stadium was electric as Bayern Munich fans reveled in their team’s success. Their overwhelming victory marked an impressive start to their campaign in the tournament. Enrique remarked on the support from the stands, saying,
“As a coach, I am happy. Really great to feel that love from the stadium. We are happy and want to continue with our ways.”
Both teams will look to build on their opening performances as they advance in the tournament. With their attacking displays and strong defense, Bayern Munich and PSG have set a high standard for the remainder of the Club World Cup.
