Bayern title wait goes on, despite Mainz win | OneFootball

Bayern Munich on the brink of Bundesliga title after routine Mainz win

Bayern Munich cruised past Mainz, but have to wait at least another week to get their hands on the Bundesliga title after second-placed Bayer Leverkusen also won.

WANT MORE NEWS LIKE THIS? FIND MORE ARTICLES ON THE OFFICIAL BUNDESLIGA APP.

Bayern assert dominance after early Mainz chance

The match began with an unexpected opportunity for the visitors. In the sixth minute, Jonathan Burkardt found himself through on goal but squandered the chance, firing over the bar. This early scare seemed to jolt Bayern into action, and they quickly asserted their dominance. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Leroy Sané opened the scoring with a clinical finish from 12 yards out.

Bayern continued to press their advantage, and their efforts were rewarded just before the break. Michael Olise, who had been a constant threat, doubled the lead in the 40th minute with a superb strike. The first half ended with the hosts firmly in control, leading 2-0. However, there was a late twist as Harry Kane received a yellow card in stoppage time, ruling him out of Bayern's crucial upcoming match against RB Leipzig.

Michael Olise and Leroy Sané (l-r.) celebrate together after Olise's goal. (IMAGO/kolbert-press/Ulrich Gamel)

Bayern maintain control as Dier seals the win

The second half saw Bayern maintain their control, despite a brief resurgence from Mainz. In the 72nd minute, Kingsley Coman was brought on for Serge Gnabry, injecting fresh energy into Bayern's attack. The final nail in Mainz's coffin came in the 84th minute when Eric Dier headed home from a corner, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory for the hosts.

The match also saw a significant milestone for Bayern legend Thomas Müller. Coming on as a substitute in the 84th minute, Müller made his 500th Bundesliga appearance, joining an elite group of players to reach this landmark. His introduction was met with a rousing ovation from the Allianz Arena crowd, recognising his immense contribution to the club over the years.

If Bayern avoid defeat in Leipzig on Matchday 32, Müller will add a record-extending 13th Bundesliga title to his collection. Defeat would also suffice, if second-placed Leverkusen - 2-0 winners over Augsburg - don't beat Freiburg.

Thomas Müller added another notable achievement to his lengthy list of career accolades with Bayern. (XX / DFL/Getty Images)

Player of the Match: Michael Olise

Olise emerged as the standout performer in this commanding Bayern victory. The winger not only scored a crucial goal but also consistently troubled the Mainz defence with his pace and skill. Olise recorded the highest maximum speed of the match at 33.38 km/h and won the most challenges (17) among all players. His goal, assist, and overall contribution to Bayern's attacking play made him the clear choice for Player of the Match.

Bundesliga Match FactsxGoals: Bayern 1.58 - Mainz 1.01Fastest player: Michael Olise (FCB), 33.38 km/hLowest goal probability: 2-0 by Michael Olise (FCB), 5.67 percentMost pressed player: Michael Olise (FCB), 31 times under pressurePass efficiency: Konrad Laimer (FCB), +5.79

Fantasy Heroes: Michael Olise (FC Bayern München, 434 Points), Eric Dier (FC Bayern München, 315 Points), Leroy Sané (FC Bayern München, 271 Points)

LIKED THE ARTICLE? FIND MORE ARTICLES ON THE OFFICIAL BUNDESLIGA APP.