Bayern Munich secured a 3-1 victory at Augsburg on Friday, extending their lead at the top of the Bundesliga to nine points ahead of Bayer Leverkusen.
However, the win was overshadowed by an injury to Jamal Musiala, who was forced off the pitch just days before their crucial Champions League match against Inter Milan.
Augsburg took the lead in the 30th minute when Dimitrios Giannoulis scored from a free kick, but Musiala levelled for Bayern just before the break. The 22-year-old midfielder controlled a pass with a swift turn and fired home to equalise.
In the second half, Harry Kane put Bayern ahead with a header, his 23rd league goal of the season, and Leroy Sane sealed the win with a late own goal off Augsburg’s Chrislain Matsima.
However, the focus shifted to Musiala after he appeared to injure himself while attempting to control a high ball in the 54th minute. He immediately signalled for help and was substituted.
Bayern are set to host Inter Milan in the first leg of their Champions League knockout tie on Tuesday, followed by the return leg next week in Italy. Sporting director Max Eberl confirmed that Musiala would not feature against Milan.
Bayern are already grappling with several injuries, including key players like Manuel Neuer, Alphonso Davies, and Kingsley Coman. Despite the win, the loss of Musiala is a significant blow for the team.
Augsburg’s defence, which had been resolute throughout the season, was breached after Bayern dominated possession but struggled to break down their solid defence.
Despite this, the hosts’ defensive efforts were undone following Zesinger’s second yellow card for a foul on Kane, reducing Augsburg to 10 men.
From the resulting free kick, Bayern capitalised with a precise cross that found Kane for the header. In stoppage time, Sane’s shot deflected off Matsima for an own goal, ensuring Bayern’s victory.
