The pivotal moment of the match came early, as SL Benfica secured an advantage with a goal in the 12th minute of the first half. This early lead set the tone for the rest of the match, allowing Benfica to focus more on their defensive structure. Despite having fewer corner kicks (3 to 6), Benfica's disciplined defense effectively neutralized Bayern Munich's attempts to capitalize on these set-pieces. The ability to maintain their composure under pressure, especially in the set-piece situations, was a significant factor in their success.

Bayern Munich struggled with discipline and effectiveness in utilizing their attacking opportunities. Despite dominating the corner kick statistics, they frequently fell into the offside trap, with five offsides to Benfica’s one, disrupting their attacking momentum. Additionally, Bayern committed nine fouls, which disrupted their own attacking flow and allowed Benfica to slow down the pace of play. The lack of yellow cards for Bayern might suggest a disciplined approach in challenges, yet their failure to convert pressure into clear scoring opportunities was costly.

Benfica's teamwork and defensive grit were crucial in securing this victory. While they collected three yellow cards, which could indicate aggressive defending, their robust teamwork ensured that they remained compact and difficult to break down. The fact that Benfica managed to avoid conceding any goals demonstrates their effective defensive strategy and the importance of their tactical planning. Bayern's inability to score, despite having more corner opportunities and fewer disciplinary issues, highlights the impeccable defensive effort from Benfica, underscoring the importance of strategy over mere statistical dominance in certain areas.

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