Match awards from Bayern’s thrilling 0-0 draw against Liverpool

Tonight we witnessed a different Bayern Munich, much different from what we’ve seen over the past few months. Tonight Bayern played with style, character and really like a team. Unfortunately, Bayern did not manage to score a goal against Liverpool, but it is far more important that not a single goal was conceded. Bayern played consistently throughout the whole 90’ minutes and even managed to neutralize Liverpool’s feared attack.

See who stood out and got a place in our match awards!

Jersey swap: Trent Alexander-Arnold

He was on top of his game tonight! He gave many problems for our weakened Kingsley Coman. He had a stand-out performance among his other teammates. especially among defenders. He also troubled Bayern’s defense with pinpoint accurate crosses. His partnership with Mohamed Salah was also very good and gave headaches to David Alaba.

Tip of the cap: Thiago Alcantara

This wasn’t a pretty game for sure, but it is very surprising how Thiago managed to adapt to it. He made some crucial tackles and clearances. It was also very interesting to see him adapt to Liverpool’s very physical style of play. He wasn’t scared of going into a duel, and that is what made the difference for Bayern’s midfield. Books could be written about how Thiago manages to control the tempo when Bayern transitions from defending to attacking. Overall a solid performance.

Golf clap: Manuel Neuer

A true leader’s performance! Neuer stepped up and played a fantastic game. He made several very important saves, but he was even more important with his passing. According to Whoscored’s data, we see that he made a staggering 62 passes, which is only six fewer than Thiago. Neuer was constantly under pressure and dealt with it well. Tonight, he was more of a defender than a goalkeeper. His presence was essential for Bayern’s defense. He was full of confidence, and that was massive for Bayern’s back four.

Standing ovation: Mats Hummels

Since the Rückrunde started, Mats’ form has improved. Tonight was his peak performance to date. He is definitely back at his best — just in time for the most important part of the season. Tonight he managed six clearances and three interceptions, and won six out of ten duels! It was a night to remember for Hummels. The experience and poise that he provided for Bayern this evening was certainly a match-deciding factor.

Meister of the match: Javi Martinez

It was speculated that he might play tonight, but when Goretzka injured his ankle, all debate was moot: Javi stepped in. Surprisingly, he was the best man on the pitch. Martinez’s form and performances have been constantly debated this season, but tonight he showed us that he still has that special something in him for big matches like these. It was like watching him in the 2012/13 treble season. Javi was all over the field tonight and did most of Bayern’s dirty work. Some of the most important tackles and interceptions were made by him. If Martinez stays in form like this, he will come quite in handy as a bulwark in Bayern’s central midfield.