Highlights: Schalke 1-1 Bayern Munich; Xabi Alonso makes his Bundesliga debut
Robert Lewandowski scored his first goal for the Bavarians in the Bundesliga, however, a controversial strike from Benedikt Howedes held Bayern Munich to a 1-1 draw at the Veltins-Arena on Saturday.
The Polish striker had moved to Bayern Munich on a free transfer from arch-rivals Borussia Dortmund after his contract ran out last season. Following a quick one-two with Sebastian Rode inside the 18-yard box, Lewandowski opened his account with a close-range finish only 10 minutes into the game.
Schalke equalized in the 62nd minute of the match through Benedikt Höwedes who slotted the ball inside the net in a controversial manner. It was Sidney Sam’s free-kick that started the attack for Schalke, and replays suggested that the ball went in following a touch from Höwedes’s arm after new-signing Xabi Alonso tried to clear it.
Referee Marco Fritz allowed the goal to stand, waving away numerous protests from the Bayern Munich players.
Speaking of Alonso, the match also marked his debut after he completed his switch to Bayern Munich from Real Madrid a day ago. The Spanish International was perhaps Bayern’s best player, keeping possession of the ball throughout. Despite being subbed off 68th minute following a cramp, he had the second highest touches of the ball (88), more than any other Bayern player except for Holger Badstuber (98).
Schalke also unveiled their newest tunnel prior to the match, standing up to their nickname The Miners. The tunnel looks like a cave-sort of a path which leads to a coal mine, and is perhaps the perfect way to spook out their claustrophobia-inclined opponents. The tunnel is dimly lit, and is definitely the most interesting tunnel in the world of football.