Bayern Munich are DFB-Pokal Champions! The quest for the domestic double is complete, and in such dominant fashion. We never looked to be in serious trouble throughout the match in what was a wonderful display of Bayern’s relentless pressing, quick passing, and amazing team quality.
Today’s game featured several superb performances, which makes it incredibly hard to pick awards. I have done my best to give recognition to the players who deserved it tonight, but feel free to let us know what you feel in the comments!
Here are the match awards for the game:
Jersey Swap: Moussa Diaby
Diaby was arguably the most active player in Leverkusen’s attack, bursting forward with well timed runs and putting his pace to good use. He crossed in at least 4 good balls, putting his teammates in good positions to score, and would’ve had at least two assists had Volland been more adept at finishing. The frustration on his face after the game is understandable, after what was a fine performance from the winger.
Tip of the Cap: Robert Lewandowski
The fact that Robert Lewandowski scored a superb brace and still doesn’t find himself further up in the awards is a testament to the quality of performances we saw on the pitch today. Two well taken goals, the first one a superb rocket, the second a beautiful chip. Also, shoutout to all the beautiful flicks and passes he made in the midfield, and the huge role he played in the buildup to the other goals.
Golf Clap: Joshua Kimmich
Joshua Kimmich is a lawnmower. He covers every blade of grass. Jokes aside, he probably covered every blade of grass on the pitch. Very good defensively, making some good penetrating runs and assisting the second goal by first winning the ball to start the move and then teeing Gnabry with a perfectly weighted pass that is some of the best work we’ve seen from him. This guy’s on beast mode, and I’ll have a hard time finding a more in-form DM right now.
Standing Ovation: Jerome Boateng
Oh, Jerome! What an incredible performance. Boateng rolled back the years in style with a superb shift in defense. Always there to bail out the defense (with an unbelievable tackle to prevent a sure goal) and his usual gorgeous balls from the top, he gave nothing to complain about. I never thought this would happen, but Suele won’t be a sure starter once he’s back in contention for a starting spot.
Meister of the Match: David Alaba
Was it ever in doubt? Kickstarting the ‘Alaba show’ with an absolute beauty of a free-kick taken with that powerful left foot of his, he never missed a beat. He used his pace and athleticism to full devastating effect to throw in a solid defensive shift, and initiated play from the back, being instrumental to the team’s build up. If fans weren’t convinced enough, this game just showed how much we really need to extend Alaba. Getting another player like him will be impossible. I hope Brazzo convinces him to extend with his charm.