Bayern Munich begin Bundesliga title defence with five-goal victory over Stuttgart

Bayern Munich opened their new Bundesliga campaign in emphatic fashion, beating Stuttgart 5-1 after recovering from an equaliser to score four times in the second half.

Vincent Kompany’s side took the lead before the interval when Dayot Upamecano found the net, but Stuttgart briefly unsettled the champions after the break.

Josha Vagnoman levelled in the 52nd minute, moments after Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer had produced an important save to deny Tiago Tomas. The equaliser gave Stuttgart a spell of pressure and appeared to threaten Bayern’s control of the match.

The response from the reigning champions was immediate, however. Bayern regained their composure and began to demonstrate the attacking quality that helped them win the Bundesliga title last season.

Michael Olise restored their lead after being released by Joshua Kimmich, before Vagnoman turned the ball into his own net to give Bayern greater breathing space.

Summer signing Ismael Saibari then made a significant contribution after coming on as a substitute. The Moroccan provided the assist for Aleksandar Pavlovic to score Bayern’s fourth, before creating another opportunity for Luis Diaz, who completed the scoring.

Pavlovic said Bayern’s determination had been crucial after Stuttgart drew level and praised the way they continued to press for a decisive advantage.

“We gave everything from start to finish,” Pavlovic said.

“Against Stuttgart, they often fade a bit in the second half and don’t have as much energy left. That was the case again today.”

Bayern maintained their attacking momentum after moving back in front, scoring three further times as Stuttgart struggled to cope with the champions’ intensity.

“We kept going, didn’t give up, and scored our goals,” Pavlovic added.

“Of course, it’s a fantastic feeling to be able to celebrate with the fans again after such a long time.”

The 22-year-old midfielder also enjoyed scoring himself, particularly after Saibari’s unselfish pass left him with a straightforward finish.

“For my goal, I was running alongside the defence, Ismael Saibari saw me and made a great assist,” Pavlovic said.

“I’m very happy about my goal.”

Pavlovic has steadily established himself as an important member of Bayern’s first team since making his breakthrough in 2023. He played 49 matches in all competitions last season as Kompany’s team secured the Bundesliga title.

The goal against Stuttgart was Pavlovic’s first since April, when he scored during Bayern’s 4-3 victory over Real Madrid.

The result gives Bayern an impressive start to their title defence and underlines the depth of attacking options available to Kompany. Stuttgart had managed to apply pressure after the interval, but Bayern’s response ensured the match ended in a decisive victory for the champions.