Match Awards from Bayern Munich’s impressive 3-1 win over Wolfsburg

Jersey Swap: Wout Weghorst

The 26-year old Dutchman broke through with a tremendous run to beat Joshua Kimmich and roof a shot over Manuel Neuer that the goalkeeper had no chance on. Weghorst’s brilliant finish was one of the lone highlights for the Wolves, who could not muster much offense even with Arjen Robben being shown a red card in the 57^th minute. John Brooks made a strong case for the Jersey Swap, but Weghorst’s finish ultimately gave him the nod.

Tip of the Cap: James Rodriguez

Just mere seconds after lazily not completing a run that could have resulted in a converted feed from Robert Lewandowski, James made up for it with a tremendous goal off an awesome look from the Polish striker. It was not James’ best effort, but he improved as the game went on and showed that when he was out wider in the formation, he could capitalize on the space in front of him as did on his goal. Could that be something Niko Kovač experiments with as the season goes on? Granted he wasn’t as wide as a typical winger would be, but he’s smart enough to put himself in great positions to score and/or create offense for others from the position. The goal was important because it gave Bayern the necessary breathing room to finish off the Wolves. One thing to watch is that James did not look as spry as normal and appeared to have difficulty hitting top speed at times. Overall, though, solid performance from the Colombian.

Golf Clap: Manuel Neuer

The suddenly embattled goalkeeper did what was necessary today and avoided some of the mistakes and indecision that have plagued him of late. Perhaps Neuer is just sick of hearing the doubters or maybe he’s just re-focused and energized after many pundits have challenged the standing of Bayern, Germany, and himself on the global scene. Neuer was cool, confident, and composed on the ball at all times today. The Wolfsburg goal had far more to do with a poor job of positional defending by Joshua Kimmich and a tremendous conversion from Weghorst than any faulty play from Neuer.

Standing Ovation: Mats Hummels

Yet another Bayern player who has been under fire from the media and also some fans, the center back extraordinaire was solid defensively and set up the first goal by Lewandowski. In a game where Wolfsburg was desperate to make its mark and had played more than a half hour up a man, Hummels was part of the staunch defensive unit for Die Roten that was sturdy and consistent. It was nice to see Hummels be the assertive presence in the middle that he has proven to be over the years.

Meister of the Match: Robert Lewandowski

It was not vintage Lewandowski at the start of the game, but the Polish striker got better as the game went on and ultimately scored the game’s first goal when he converted a terrific feed from Mats Hummels. Later, Lewandowski returned to his true “hunter” form by capitalizing off an errant header by Wolfsburg and burying a shot to secure a brace. In addition, Lewandowski set up James perfectly for the squad’s third goal. Inspired and energetic effort from the Polish Hitman. This was the Lewandowski that Bayern needs week-to-week.