Robert Lewandowski struck twice and Bayern Munich nemesis Dodi Lukebakio marked his Hertha Berlin debut with a goal in a pulsating opening-night draw at the Allianz Arena.
Hertha Berlin: Lukebakio (36′), Grujic (39′)
Bayern Munich: Lewandowski (24′), Lewandowski, (60′, Penalty)
Despite missing out on the injured Leon Goretzka, Bayern started brilliantly in new Bundesliga season. Thiago Alcantara and Thomas Müller both had very early chances for Bayern. While at the other end, Vedad Ibisevic kepe Manuel Neuer busy. Typical Bundesliga business was quickly resumed, with Bayern seemingly becoming aggresive. Serge Gnabry provided the ball for Lewandowski to keep down from close range with an outstretched leg. Apparently the floodgates were about to open, when the visitors in Allianz arena become mere spectator.
A shot from Lukebakio took a generous deflection off the back of Ibisevic to leave Neuer flat-footed. Lukebakio scored a hat-trick for Fortuna Düsseldorf last season. This might not be actually part of Bayern’s opening-night script, as Hertha took the lead.
Kingsley Coman drove right into the Hertha box, early in the second half as Rune Jarstein showed great anticipation. VAR signalled an off-the-ball nasty by Grujic on the Polish striker, who accepted the gift to level the score for Bayern. Bayern predictably changed momentum to get a winner as Hertha dug in their heels. Niko Kovac made late changes. Renato Sanches and Alphonso Davies were sent on for the closing phases. In spite of all their initiatives, the German champions were unable to find a winner. This would be very first time in eight years, Bayern failed to win their opening match for Bundesliga season.
Team:
The final countdown. ⌛ ????⚪#packmas #FCBBSC pic.twitter.com/U2kWMiHKyC
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) August 16, 2019
Our Starting XI for the opening game of the season! Let's cause some matchday 1️⃣ madness ????#hahohe #FCBBSC pic.twitter.com/mUHDfaU6g3
— Hertha Berlin (@HerthaBSC_EN) August 16, 2019
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