Müller and Costa decide it early: Post-match awards and player ratings

Tip Of The Cap: Thiago Alcantara. After getting a rest over the weekend in the Bundesliga, Pep's protege once again showed everyone what all the fuss is about.  Playing alongside Xabi Alonso in the central midfield, Thiago was pulling the strings all game long, amid breathtaking footwork that had Wolfsburg mesmerized.  Almost had a goal or two, and almost had an assist, on a fabulous little lob pass to Arjen Robben.  Had the Dutchman scored, that would have been the goal of the game.  It also needs to be noted that the Spaniard worked hard on the defensive end as well, constantly coming back to help out, assisting in smothering the Wolfsburg "offense", and picking many a green-and-white pocket.

Golf Clap: David Alaba. For all those people that constantly complain about him playing in any position other than left back, today was a strong argument for their case.  With Javi Martinez healthy and playing at center back alongside Jerome Boateng, Pep was able to return the Austrian back to what is arguably his strongest position on the left side of the defense, although in games like today's, he was up the field attacking a lot more than he had to defend.  Alaba and Kingsley Coman showed a very strong chemistry already, as they ran rampant down the left flank, with the Austrian notching two assists on perfectly picked out crosses to Müller on the far post.

Standing Ovation: Douglas Costa. I'm not sure if you've heard, but this Brazilian dude that came from the Ukraine isn't half bad.  It doesn't matter if Pep plays him on the left wing, right wing, or, as showcased in the last two games, in the middle behind the forward(s), this guy can play.  Incredible ball control, even at speed, and with a monstrously quick first step, Costa is a nightmare to cover, as Wolfsburg's defense had to find out.  He opened the scoring with a peach of a shot into the top right corner from the top of the penalty box, and just kept his opponents off balance all game.  His crosses are consistently strong and dangerous, and he could have picked up an assist if Müller had been able to convert for his hat trick.

Meister Of The Match: Thomas Müller.  This player just defies explanation.  He seems to be everywhere, constantly moving, getting open, occupying defenders, opening up spaces for his teammates, and always helping out on defense as well.  Oh, yeah, he also scores goals, like, all the time, especially in the big games.  Ho hum, another brace for the Bayern youth product, who apparently must have practiced his volleys this week.

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