Some scenes from the game two days ago(©AFP)
Some scenes from the game two days ago(©AFP)

Bayern's favourite opponent you've never heard of

Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 26.07.24. | 10:33

The Bavarians' pre-season friendlies against FC Rottach-Egern have become a tradition, which, most importantly, celebrates football free of result shackles

The break between two seasons is a tricky thing. Seasons are long, there are more matches than ever before, and it doesn't seem that number will be reduced. All the players are longing for rest. After the break ends, it's hard to get back on track and get into a playing rhythm once more. Pre-season is there to start that process, but no one wants physically challenging and high-intense friendly matches at the beginning.

That's why Bayern Munich found an appropriate opponent for their pre-season start and made a tradition of those clashes. However, you've probably never heard of the rival, the amateur club from the 9th division of German football - FC Rottach-Egern. Two days ago, the two clubs faced each other for the fourth time in the last six years (fifth in total), with Bayern winning 14-1. Vincent Kompany mainly gave the opportunity to youngsters, and Mathys Tel stood out with a hat trick.

Nevertheless, this "little derby" remembers some much more incredible results. A year ago, in their most convincing victory, the Bavarians thrashed their opponent 27-0 (?!) with as many as three players - Tel, Marcel Sabitzer, and Jamal Musiala - scoring five goals each! In 2019, Bayern were more merciful, beating Rottach-Egern 23-0, led by Corentin Tolisso (4 goals) and Robert Lewandowski, Leon Goretzka, and Thomas Muller (hat-tricks).

Six years ago, in the clash that started this interesting tradition, the amateurs from the town at Lake Tegernsee even managed to net twice! They lost 20-2, though, with Lewandowski, Kingsley Coman, Sandro Wagner, and Maximilian Franzke scoring hat-tricks. The first-ever "Bavarian derby" was played back in 2006, ending with the same result as this year 14-1. Finally, these five games provide an unbelievable goal difference - 98-4!

Looking at these results, one can't help but wonder why these teams are playing against each other in the first place. For Bayern, these matches are more effortless than training, while Rottach-Egern gets thrashed every time. The answer is simple - tradition and respect. Sometimes, it's not about winning or the final score. On the contrary, it's about appreciating the game, even in the 9th division and enjoying it even when you concede a few dozen goals.



tags

Bayern MunichMathys TelVincent Kompany

Other News