Facts following the 1–8 defeat at FC Bayern.
VfL began the competitive 2026 campaign with a heavy defeat. On Sunday evening, the Wolves lost 1–8 (1–2) away to FC Bayern Munich. The hosts made the better start at the Allianz Arena, but VfL responded well in the first half. After conceding early, the Green-Whites managed an equaliser to keep the contest open. Shortly before half-time, FC Bayern regained the lead, sending the teams into the dressing rooms with a narrow 1–2 deficit from Wolfsburg’s perspective. After the restart, however, the match turned decisively. Munich significantly increased the pressure and took their chances ruthlessly. VfL conceded six further goals in the second half and struggled to regain control or relieve the pressure. Despite a committed performance before the break, the year ultimately began with a heavy defeat.
Facts from the match
Unfortunate firsts: For the first time in Bundesliga history, the Green-Whites scored two own goals in a single match. In addition, the Wolves have now scored an own goal in three consecutive Bundesliga games – a sequence that had never previously occurred in this form for any team in the league’s history.
Comeback for Paredes: Despite the clear defeat, there was also a positive moment from a Wolfsburg perspective. Kevin Paredes made his Bundesliga comeback on Sunday evening. The US international was introduced in the final 15 minutes of the 1–8 defeat at the Allianz Arena, marking his first competitive appearance since April 26 of last year. Paredes had suffered an injury at that time in the away match at SC Freiburg.
Pejcinovic scores again in Munich: Dzenan Pejcinovic also showcased his strong form in the opening game of the year. The 20-year-old striker scored Wolfsburg’s only goal at the Allianz Arena, continuing his impressive performances of recent weeks. In the final home match against SC Freiburg before the winter break, the young forward had netted his first Bundesliga goals with a hat-trick. Back in his hometown of Munich, Pejcinovic once again demonstrated his goalscoring instincts. While his strike against the record champions ultimately proved little more than consolation, it once again underlined the development of the young attacker, who is increasingly establishing himself as a reliable goalscorer this season.
Opponents’ scoring record: With their 8–1 win over VfL, FC Bayern became the first team this season to score more than six goals in a single Bundesliga match. Munich once again highlighted their attacking strength.
Historic consistency: The reigning German champions also extended their remarkable run. For the 24th consecutive Bundesliga match, FCB scored at least two goals. This currently represents an ongoing Bundesliga record.
Head-to-head comparison
- xGoals: 3.30 FCB – 1.36 WOB
- Shots: 16 FCB – 8 WOB
- Distance covered: 127.05 km FCB – 122.27 km WOB
- Possession: 68% FCB – 32% WOB
- Duel success rate: 49% FCB – 51% WOB
- Pass accuracy: 92% FCB – 78% WOB
- Successful dribbles: 62% FCB – 46% WOB
- Most shots: Michael Olise (FCB) 5 – Dzenan Pejcinovic (WOB) 5
- Top distance covered: Tom Bischof (FCB) 13.3 km – Kilian Fischer (WOB) 12 km
