Robert Lewandowski and Philippe Coutinho compliment one another after win over FC Köln

Bayern Munich’s 4-0 win over FC Koln kicked off the Oktoberfest season in proper fashion and saw them climb to the 2nd spot in Bundesliga table behind league leaders RB Leipzig. Two goals from Robert Lewandowski, one from Philippe Coutinho, and one from Ivan Perisic sealed the three points at the Allianz Arena for Bayern, but Lewandowski and Coutinho were well and truly the best performers on the pitch for Bayern.

Bayern were already leading Koln 2-0 thanks to a brace from Lewandowski when Coutinho won a penalty in the 59th minute. The Polish ace is usually Bayern’s penalty taker, and he could have had a hat-trick if he stepped up to the spot and converted, but he instead decided to let Coutinho take the penalty to open his Bayern scoring account.

As it happened, Coutinho converted it twice: because of a box infringement identified by VAR, Couthino had to re-take the penalty, but he made no mistake on either shot. Speaking after the match (Bild), the Brazilian play-maker commented on the kind gesture from Lewandowski:

That was an outstanding gesture by Lewandowski. He’s a magnificent player and a very nice guy. I scored my first goal, I’m elated. The most important thing, though, is the team. We’re very happy about the three points.

Lewandowski said that he really wanted Coutinho to open his scoring account for Bayern, knowing how important it would be for his confidence:

Philippe gain confidence with it. It’s always important to get on the scoresheet for the first time. Now he really belongs to Bayern Munich! It’s important for us for the future that he is happy and feel good. That can also be important for us as a team.

Coutinho comically remarked, “I hope that I can return the favor with many assists!” The two have already shown some fabulous linkup play when they’ve been on the pitch together. Coutinho almost had an assist to Lewandowski against Köln early in the second half, but the Pole’s effort sailed narrowly over the crossbar.

Niko Kovac also commented on the positive chemistry he has observed between Coutinho and Lewandowski. Kovac was likewise delighted to see the Brazilian score his first goal for Bayern:

The boys get along very well. The atmosphere is really good. You can see it on the pitch. Philippe sets the stage for Lewy so often that I think it’s very praiseworthy that he could score his first goal on a penalty. We’re happy for Philippe, but also Lewy and the whole team!

Christof Stache/AFP/Getty Images