Ismael Saibari and Serge Gnabry injured as Bayern take half-time lead against Dortmund

Bayern Munich suffered a double injury setback during the first half of their Klassiker meeting with Borussia Dortmund, with Ismael Saibari and Serge Gnabry both forced off before Konrad Laimer’s goal gave the hosts a 1-0 lead at the interval.

The Bavarians dominated large spells of the opening half but were dealt two worrying blows in the space of two minutes, losing both attacking players to injuries.

Saibari was the first to leave the pitch after picking up an injury in the 29th minute.

The Moroccan international had earlier missed a good opportunity to put Bayern ahead before attempting to recover possession from Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

However, the challenge ended badly for the midfielder, who appeared to suffer a worrying injury after twisting his lower limb during the incident.

Despite attempting to continue, Saibari was unable to carry on and was eventually substituted. Nathaniel Brown came on in his place in the 29th minute as Bayern’s medical staff attended to the injured player.

The situation became more concerning for the German champions just two minutes later when Gnabry also had to leave the field.

The Germany international went down with what appeared to be a muscular problem and was unable to continue. His withdrawal forced Bayern into another early substitution, with Josip Stanišić introduced in the 31st minute.

Losing two attacking players so early in such an important fixture was an unwanted development for the Bayern coaching staff, particularly with Jamal Musiala and Luis Díaz already unavailable.

Despite the setbacks, Bayern managed to maintain their control of the contest and continued searching for a breakthrough against their Bundesliga rivals.

Their persistence eventually paid off in the 38th minute when Laimer put the home side ahead.

The midfielder reacted quickest after Kobel had made an initial save, arriving at the loose ball to fire home and give Bayern a deserved advantage.

The goal ensured the Bavarians went into the half-time break leading 1-0, although the celebrations were overshadowed by concerns over the fitness of Saibari and Gnabry.

Both players’ conditions remain uncertain, with further medical examinations expected to establish the extent of their respective injuries.

The results of those assessments will determine whether either player faces a spell on the sidelines, adding to Bayern’s existing concerns over their attacking options.

For now, Bayern have the advantage in the Klassiker, but the injuries to Saibari and Gnabry have taken some of the shine off an otherwise positive first-half performance.