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It wasn’t an easy match for Bayern Munich tonight. Red Bull Salzburg made life difficult for the Bavarians and was probably one of the toughest opponents this season. In the end, Bayern managed to get a win in rainy Salzburg. In the end, the 6:2 scoreline makes it look like it was easier than it was for Bayern, but Salzburg was constantly dangerous, and they deserve praise for this performance.
Jersey Swap: Mergim Berisha
The young Serbian attacker had an impressive match. He was always moving and made life difficult for Bayern’s back four. He scored the opening goal for the Bulls, but he could have scored a couple more, but Boateng and Neuer denied him his chances.
Der Kaiser: Manuel Neuer
The German veteran had an inspirational performance tonight. Red Bull Salzburg tested Bayern’s goalkeeper on a few occasions, but Neuer resisted most of their attempts. He kept Bayern in the match with his saves on many instances. One of his best saves was in the first half after a corner, Ramalho hit a wonderful header, but Neuer was there. His composure and calmness were also important when Bayern went forward, breaking the high press from RB Salzburg.
Fußballgott: Joshua Kimmich
Well, what is there to say about Kimmich? He had a slow start in tonight’s match, but as the game progressed, he got more and more involved. In the second half, he bossed the midfield and got really comfortable with the game’s tempo. He blossomed in the last 30-ish minutes when he made two assists, one from a corner for Boateng and one from open play for Leroy Sane. He finished the match with 92% successful passes and some impressive stats when it comes to defending. Keep it up, Josh!
Der Bomber: Robert Lewandowski
Even if Robert didn’t play the most amazing match, he still managed to help Bayern with his massive two goals. One from the spot and one header in the dying moments of the match. It is impressive to see a 32-year-old run so much for the entire match - he was relentless. He often moved to the wing and helped his team build up the attacks. That also left some space for Gnabry and Coman to help the wing-backs. In the end, a clutch performance from the Polish striker.
Meister of the Match: Jerome Boateng
Yes, this is a controversial award, but hear me out. The match was pretty much open until the last 10 minutes. In the 78th minute, Jerome Boateng scored a header after Kimmich’s perfect cross, and that goal completely changed the game. RB Salzburg simply gave up, and Bayern attacked mercilessly and scored three more goals. So, the final score doesn’t tell the full picture.
Up until Boateng’s goal, he was already one of the best players on the pitch, alongside Neuer. Boateng was a rock tonight. At 32, he showed that he still has it and that he can compete with much younger and quicker attackers. Yes, he might have reacted a bit better when Salzburg scored their second goal, but besides that, he bossed the defense. He had four clearances, two interceptions, three tackles, six out of six duels won... A night to remember for Jerome!