Match awards from Bayern’s tough 2:1 win against Borussia Mönchengladbach!

Jersey Swap: Florian Neuhaus

The German midfielder was one of the better ones for Borussia Mönchengladbach tonight. He was able to cut a lot of passes from Bayern Munich’s midfield and he was also heavily involved in Borussia’s attacking play. He was very quick to dispose of his opponents, and it was difficult playing against him today.

Tip of the Cap: Joshua Kimmich and Jerome Boateng

Both of these players had a solid performance today. Both of them fought hard and well. Kimmich had the difficult task of stopping link-up play and counter-attacks. He did those tasks well. Jerome Boateng also had a difficult job to do — Mönchengladbach is known for their fast attacking players. Boateng showed again why he is still a good choice for center-back. He was very good tonight and let few balls go through to put Manuel Neuer’s goal at risk. Both players continued their recent good form.

Golf Clap: Serge Gnabry

It was a difficult game for Serge. He was mostly cut off and far away from the goal. But still he managed to influence the game. His attacks were always dangerous and it was very difficult for Gladbach to guard him today. When he got the ball, he usually used short passes and quick dribbles to get past his opponents. When he was in the attacking third, he was always dangerous on the ball, especially when Kingsley Coman was brought on. Serge managed three shots today, and two of them were on target and one was blocked.

Standing Ovation: Joshua Zirkzee

The youngster continued his good form and established him as one of the brightest talents of his generation. It was generally a tough match for young Dutchman because he had to fight for the ball throughout the match. He received very few useful passes and was often found closed off. He showed his goal-scoring instincts, though, when he cut off a wayward pass from Mönchengladbach’s goalkeeper Jan Sommer and scored a stunning goal. I also found his dribbling ability in small spaces very interesting. He is definitely showing great promise and may well get a few more chances before the season is over.

Meister of the Match: Leon Goretzka

The German midfielder is slowly but surely establishing himself as an undeniable starter for Bayern, game in game out. Goretzka’s work rate has been incredible, especially after the pandemic-caused break. He was impressive tonight. He fought constantly in the midfield and won many balls and was also important for Bayern’s attacks. He managed to score the much-needed winner tonight after Benjamin Pavard’s redemption assist. Goretzka showed both great defensive play and good link-up play. He managed to get 87% of his passes right this evening. Goretzka and Kimmich are showing that Bayern can continue playing well even without their Spanish magician Thiago Alcantara.