Thomas Muller set a new record for Bayern Munich, scoring in his 710th match for the club in a 2-0 Bundesliga victory over Freiburg on Sunday. Muller, who surpassed former goalkeeper Sepp Maier's record for appearances, came on as a substitute in the 59th minute, with Bayern leading 1-0 from a penalty converted by Harry Kane.
Muller scored with a shot from a Serge Gnabry pass in the 78th minute, sending the ball past Freiburg goalkeeper Florian Muller. Muller, who started his Bayern career in 2008, expressed his satisfaction with the goal but emphasized that records are secondary to the team’s performance.
Harry Kane's first-half penalty came after a VAR review determined that Freiburg captain Christian Gunter's arm was in an unnatural position when the ball struck it. Gunter criticized the decision, questioning the interpretation of handball rules.
Kane, who was honored for being the Bundesliga's top scorer last season, had his goal in the 38th minute. In stoppage time, Freiburg's Lucas Holer missed a penalty awarded for handball by Bayern's Joao Palhinha.
Following the match, Muller celebrated with the fans and gave away his boots. Bayern's coach, Vincent Kompany, praised Muller for his consistent performances and dedication. This win continues Kompany's perfect start as Bayern's manager, having won all three matches this season.
Freiburg has not won a league match at Bayern since 1993, marking 25 consecutive games without a victory at the Allianz Arena.
In other Bundesliga news, Heidenheim secured a 4-0 victory over Augsburg, with Bayern loanee Paul Wanner making a significant impact. The 18-year-old scored a penalty and assisted on another goal, becoming the youngest player to score a penalty in Bundesliga history. Wanner also assisted Adrian Beck’s goal, with Leo Scienza and Maximilian Breunig adding to the scoreline.
Heidenheim, promoted to the top flight for the first time last season, has moved to the top of the Bundesliga table following this win. They are ahead of RB Leipzig and Bayern on goal difference, as all three clubs have won their opening fixtures. Leipzig's 3-2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen marked the latter’s first league loss in 35 matches, dating back to May 2023.