The genius coaching abilities of Marco Kurz and the talent, skill and resolution of the Red Devils shined through once again Aug. 27 as they defeated the current German champions, Bayern München, 2-0 at Fritz Walter Stadium in Kaiserslautern.
With the stadium filled to capacity, Red Devil fans gave a passionate, yet unwelcoming, reception to Bayern München as they stepped onto the pitch to start their warm-ups. That was the moment when continuous pounding of the München psyche began. During the match, the 1. FCK players exceeded all expectations, as did their loyal supporters.
The starting line-up for the Red Devils presented Srdjan Lakic and Adam Nemec as forwards; Ivo Ilicivec manned the left wing; Christian Tiffert and Jiri Bilek worked the midfield; Oliver Kirch guarded the right flank; Martin Amedick
(captain) and Rodnei as defense; Florian Dick and Leon Jessen as right and left wing defenders; Tobias Sippel as the goal keeper.
The star studded Bayern München was no match for the Red Devils. Thomas Müller (forward), Ivica Olic (forward), Miraslov Klose (forward), Franck Ribery (midfield), Mark Van Bommel (midfield), Bastian Schwensteiger, Diego Contento (defender), Holger Badstuber (defender), Daniel van Buyten (defender), Philipp Lahm (defender) and Hans-Jörge Butt (goalkeeper) made up the starting line-up for Bayern München.
Louis van Gaal, head coach for Bayern München, was clearly frustrated throughout the match. His key players were not performing as expected and the few opportunities they had to score were wasted.
Thomas Müller had a perfect opportunity to score but missed by mere inches. Moments later, Ilicevic took control of the ball and swept his way through to score the first goal. As the crowd roared and the ball went back into play, Lakic took possession of the ball and scored again, within one minute of Ilicevik’s goal. The cheering of the fans was out of control.
Bayern München’s defeat was clear at that moment. The lead established by the Red Devils and the psychological torment the opponents were subjected to by the crowd proved to be a lethal combination for Bayern München.
Not content with their lead, the Red Devils not only focused on defending their goal but continuously attacked the opponent’s zone.
When the match was called, the Red Devils embraced each other as the crowd cheered them on. They ran their victory lap and took a few moments to salute and thank their loyal followers.
The team has proven to be a force to reckon with in the first Bundesliga. Kurz’ foresight and skill are the perfect tools to bring this team to glory in the first Bundesliga.
On Sept. 12, the Red Devils will face FSV Mainz 05 at 3:30 p.m. in Mainz.