Muller laments ´sloppy´ Bayern defending, praises ´disciplined´ Bremen

Thomas Muller lamented a moment of “sloppy defending” after Bayern Munich were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Werder Bremen.

The Bundesliga champions were second best for much of a first half that ended with them conceding when Josh Sargent easily turned Javi Martinez before teeing up Maximilian Eggestein.

Speaking after the match, Muller was particularly unhappy about that incident, resulting as it did from a visiting throw-in.

However, he conceded that Bremen were good value for a point thanks to a disciplined approach that restricted the hosts’ chances.

“Bremen were disciplined in defence the whole match,” he said. “They let us get up to 45 yards in on goal, on purpose of course. 

“In and around the penalty area they shut down the middle very well and also shut down the wide areas in the final third. 

“Our sloppy defending in the throw-in situation gave them a cheap goal, so their plan worked.”

Bayern coach Hansi Flick also paid tribute to the visitors’ execution of their plan, though he was happy to see his players fight back after falling behind.

He added: “We didn’t quite play as we’d planned. Bremen allowed us very little space. We weren’t able to create chances as usual. 

“The team tried everything in the second half. They fought to avoid defeat, it was impressive. We didn’t defend well when we conceded the goal. 

“Bremen did a good job and deservedly took a point.”

 @LucasHernandez was subbed off with bruising. It’s uncertain if he will be fit for Salzburg. #FCBSVW pic.twitter.com/GYeUpk5DHg

— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) November 21, 2020

Flick’s men were hit by an early blow as Lucas Hernandez was forced off following an awkward fall.

And, according to his coach, the Frenchman is now a doubt for Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with RB Salzburg.

“Lucas fell hard on his hip, each step was painful,” Flick added.