Bayern Munich News: Manuel Neuer’s Defense Snaps Sevilla’s Unbeaten Streak
KEY POINTS
- Bayern Munich adds another title by winning the 2020 UEFA Super Cup
- Manuel Neuer played a crucial role in Bayern Munich’s 2-1 win
- This loss snaps Sevilla’s 21-game unbeaten streak
Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer played a big role in their UEFA Super Cup-clinching 2-1 overtime win over Sevilla. The defensive presence of the 34-year-old veteran snapped the 21-game unbeaten streak of Los Palanganas.
"It's disappointing but that's football," newly acquired midfielder Ivan Rakitic said, as reported by Goal.
After allowing a penalty kick in the opening minutes, Neuer denied any additional offensive firepower Sevilla at every turn. Rakitic said Neuer’s defense made the difference in the game’s outcome.
"We saw tonight how important Neuer is for them. We had two great chances to go ahead but he stopped them. Then we gave away a silly corner and they scored,” Rakitic continued.
The game started well for Sevilla as Lucas Ocampos opened the scoring with a penalty kick on the 13th minute. This forced the reigning Champions League winners to retaliate care of Leon Goretzka netting the tying goal to force extra time. Javi Martinez delivered the winning blow for Bayern Munich to add another title for their team.
"Nevertheless, we can be proud of how we played against the best team in Europe and we feel well prepared for the league season," Rakitic, a former Barcelona star, added.
The win was Bayern Munich's 23rd straight and it extends the club's unbeaten streak to 28 games, CBS Sports reported. Coincidentally, Bayern's winning streak dates back to Feb. 9, the same day of Sevilla's last loss.
While the defeat is difficult for the team, captain Jesus Navas emphasized that they have to bounce back.
"It was a really even game and in the end, it was them who were able to score the winner, but we had our chances," Navas said.
The 33-year-old stressed that while they missed out on scoring opportunities, they need to adjust and move forward.
"We had chances and didn't take them. We need to bounce back and carry on," Navas concluded.
The match was the first European game to be played in front of fans as 15,180 supporters at the Puskas Arena saw Bayern Munich raise another championship trophy.
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