Werder Bremen head coach Horst Steffen has suggested Bayern Munich benefitted from questionable officiating in their 4-0 Bundesliga win on Friday night. The manager highlighted two key moments – a contentious corner leading to Jonathan Tah's opener and a penalty awarded to Harry Kane – claiming Bayern were given "fortunate" decisions in crucial stages of the game.
Bayern Munich's win over Werder Bremen not without controversy
Bayern Munich eased to a 4-0 win over Werder Bremen, but not without controversy. The hosts took the lead in the 21st minute when Tah scored from a corner that shouldn’t have been given, as Michael Olise appeared to foul Felix Agu in the build-up. Later, a penalty converted by Kane for Bayern’s second goal further frustrated Steffen's side, who felt both decisions unfairly swung momentum.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesWerder Bremen boss unhappy with the refereeing
Steffen voiced his displeasure post-match, suggesting luck – and refereeing – didn’t go his side’s way. "If you want to take something home from Munich, you need a bit of luck on all levels. And before the first two goals, there were referee decisions that, in my opinion, weren't entirely fortunate," he said. On the penalty incident, Steffen added: "Harry is playing it cleverly, of course. But my feeling is that you shouldn't give the penalty."
AFPWerder Bremen captain doubles down on Olise's foul
Werder Bremen captain Marco Friedl echoed his coach’s frustration, describing Olise’s push as a "definite foul". However, the defender conceded the result was still fair, admitting Bayern were dominant throughout. Despite the complaints, both Steffen and Friedl accepted that small errors alone couldn’t explain the heavy defeat at the Allianz Arena. Nevertheless, German outlet suggested Bayern were receiving 'preferential treatment'.
Bayern maintain perfect start to new season
With the win, Bayern remain unbeaten and continue their pursuit of another Bundesliga title under Vincent Kompany. For now, Steffen’s comments add to growing debate over perceived bias in refereeing decisions involving the champions.
