Bayern Munich crushes Stuttgart 5-1 in commanding Bundesliga opener

MUNICH — Bayern Munich delivered a statement of intent in their Bundesliga title defence, dismantling Stuttgart with a clinical 5-1 triumph that demonstrated their competitive edge remains intact heading into the new season.

The defending champions controlled proceedings from the outset at the Allianz Arena, but reserved their most incisive football for the second half, when they shifted into another gear to overwhelm their visitors. The comprehensive victory underlined that Bayern have retained the attacking verve that defined their previous campaign.

The emphatic win marks an ideal start to the campaign for the Bavarian club, who will be expected to mount another serious challenge for domestic honours. Stuttgart, meanwhile, suffered a chastening defeat in their opening fixture as they face an uphill battle to keep pace with their ambitious opponents.

The result sets the tone early in what promises to be another enthralling Bundesliga season, with Bayern's clinical finishing and attacking cohesion evident throughout the contest. The five-goal haul will provide confidence as the club progresses through the campaign's demanding schedule.