The match between 1. FC Düren and Bayern Munich in the DFB-Pokal presented a classic “David vs. Goliath” scenario. As a fifth-tier team, 1. FC Düren was facing the reigning Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League winners, Bayern Munich, making this one of the most highly anticipated cup matches of the season. Despite the overwhelming odds, the lineups played a crucial role in how both teams approached the game. Let’s take a look at the lineups for both sides and explore their strategies.
1. FC Düren Lineup
Formation: 4-3-3
For 1. FC Düren, playing against Bayern Munich meant adopting a compact, disciplined approach to defend against the Bavarian powerhouse. The team lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with a focus on staying organized at the back while hoping to break quickly on the counterattack. Here’s the starting lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Kevin Jackmuth
- Defenders:
- Philipp Simon (Right Back)
- Joran Sobiech (Center Back)
- Markus Wipperfürth (Center Back)
- Marc Brasnic (Left Back)
- Midfielders:
- Michael Fink (Defensive Midfielder)
- Patrick Jahn (Central Midfielder)
- Florent Bojaj (Central Midfielder)
- Forwards:
- Max Wegner (Right Winger)
- Simon Handle (Striker)
- Rolf Feltscher (Left Winger)
Düren’s strategy was clear: maintain a solid defensive line and limit the space for Bayern’s attackers. In midfield, the team relied heavily on Fink and Jahn to break up Bayern’s play and provide support to the defense. Upfront, Simon Handle and Rolf Feltscher aimed to exploit any counter-attacking opportunities by utilizing their pace on the wings.
Bayern Munich Lineup
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Bayern Munich, known for their depth in squad and attacking prowess, approached the game with a rotated but still formidable lineup. Due to fixture congestion and their commitments to multiple competitions, head coach Hansi Flick opted to rest many of his key players. However, even with a “B team,” Bayern’s strength was evident. Here’s how Bayern Munich lined up:
- Goalkeeper: Alexander Nübel
- Defenders:
- Bouna Sarr (Right Back)
- Niklas Süle (Center Back)
- Lucas Hernández (Center Back)
- Alphonso Davies (Left Back)
- Midfielders:
- Marc Roca (Defensive Midfielder)
- Javi Martínez (Defensive Midfielder)
- Thomas Müller (Attacking Midfielder)
- Jamal Musiala (Right Wing)
- Douglas Costa (Left Wing)
- Striker: Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting
With Thomas Müller pulling the strings in the attacking midfield role and Choupo-Moting leading the line as the lone striker, Bayern Munich were set up to dominate possession and break through Düren’s defense. The speed of Douglas Costa and the youth of Jamal Musiala on the wings created constant threats from wide areas.
Key Highlights of the Match
Although Bayern fielded a somewhat weakened side, they remained dominant from the start. Choupo-Moting played a pivotal role, scoring twice, while Thomas Müller’s experience and vision helped Bayern control the pace of the game. Bayern Munich eventually secured a comfortable victory, but credit goes to 1. FC Düren for their spirited performance against one of the best clubs in the world.
Conclusion
The 1. FC Düren vs. Bayern Munich clash in the DFB-Pokal was a thrilling experience, especially for Düren, who had the opportunity to face off against world-class players. The lineups demonstrated the gulf in class between the two teams, but Düren’s organization and determination kept the game competitive for large portions. Bayern Munich’s quality ultimately shone through, but the match showcased the magic of cup competitions where anything can happen.
