At the Allianz Arena on Saturday evening, Bayern Munich wasted no time asserting their dominance against Hamburger SV, racing into a commanding 2–0 lead within the opening ten minutes of play. With goals from Serge Gnabry and young talent Aleksandar Pavlović, the Bavarians demonstrated their intent to remain ruthless in the Bundesliga campaign.
The match began at a frantic pace, and Bayern immediately pinned HSV deep into their own half. Within three minutes, Jamal Musiala combined brilliantly with Michael Olise down the right before feeding Serge Gnabry, who fired low past Daniel Heuer-Fernandez for the opener. The Allianz erupted, sensing another potential rout from the Rekordmeister.
Hamburg, who entered the clash still searching for their first win of the season, struggled to gain composure against Bayern’s high pressing. Just six minutes later, Aleksandar Pavlović doubled the lead with a powerful strike from the edge of the box after Joshua Kimmich cleverly laid the ball off. For Pavlović, the academy graduate, it was a statement moment, further solidifying his growing influence under head coach Vincent Kompany.
Speculation before the match centered around whether new signing Luis Díaz would feature after international duty with Colombia. The winger, however, not only started but looked lively on the left flank, constantly testing HSV’s backline and linking fluidly with Harry Kane. The English striker, while yet to get on the scoresheet, acted as a focal point in Bayern’s attacking structure, dragging defenders out of position and opening space for his teammates.
For HSV, there were few positives in the first half. The debut of loanee Fábio Vieira from Arsenal provided a glimpse of creativity, but with the trio of Ransford Königsdörffer, Erion Sahiti, and Vieira isolated up front, clear chances were scarce. The visitors’ defense, marshaled by Vuskovic and Omari, looked overwhelmed by the relentless pace of Bayern’s wide players.
As the match moved toward halftime, Bayern appeared in full control, dictating the tempo through Kimmich and Pavlović in midfield while their backline, anchored by Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano, allowed little room for counterattacks.
If the early minutes are any indication, Bayern look determined to re-establish themselves as the most feared side in Germany, while HSV face the sobering reality of another uphill battle for survival.
For Bayern fans, the blend of seasoned leaders like Neuer and Kane with youthful talents such as Pavlović suggests a balance of experience and energy that could carry them deep into both domestic and European competitions this season.
