Match awards from Bayern Munich’s frustrating 1-1 draw against Gladbach

Bayern Munich kicked off the 2021/2022 Bundesliga season with a lacklustre display. The team looked quite rusty overall, and several players just seemed off. A few players did shine, however, but Bayern should be disappointed with their finishing, which prevented them from taking home all three points.

Here are the match awards:

Jersey Swap: Yann Sommer

Gladbach’s Swiss army knife of a goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, was nothing short of spectacular. Several times, it seemed like he was keeping his side in the game all by himself, making save after spectacular save to deny Robert Lewandowski and Co. on multiple occasions. Bayern should’ve had at least four more goals if not for Gladbach’s great wall. He looks all set to have a great season after an admirable showing for Switzerland in the Euros.

Der Bomber: Alphonso Davies

Yes, Alphonso Davies was one of Bayern’s best attacking players today. True, he is a left back, and maybe he wasn’t so great with his defensive duties (especially in the first half), but his attacking inputs were massive and sometimes he managed to keep the Gladbach defense pinned back all by himself. It’s admirable how well he held his own in the left flank, considering he had almost no support from Gnabry, who had a game to forget. It feels good to see the budding Canadian terrorize defenses again.

Der Fußballgott: Joshua Kimmich

Bayern’s midfield engine is indispensable, and he was once again on an elite level. Kimmich was omnipresent and his drive really helped Bayern push forward with more aggression. He assisted Bayern’s goal with a good corner and was heavily involved in the buildup of every move forward. It’s great that the club is working to get a contract extension done, because we need to tie this guy to Munich for as long as possible.

Der Kaiser: Manuel Neuer

Once again, Bayern’s defense was suspect and failed to impress, but the great wall of Munich more than made up for it with some HUGE saves. Yes, he didn’t have a lot to do in the game, but came up aces and spades whenever called upon. Top tier performance from Bayern’s captain.

Meister of the Match: Robert Lewandowski

This man has the ability to carry a team on his own. He does find himself up here very often, but not without good reason. Lewandowski was stellar, scoring Bayern’s only goal on the volley from Kimmich’s corner. He should’ve had at least three more to his name, if not for some outstanding goalkeeping from Sommer’s part. He was also great in the midfield, heavily involved in the passing sequences, build up and key passes in the final third. If not for some despicable finishing from Gnabry, he should’ve also had two assists.

All Lewandowski needs for better production is some quality support, and Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sané are just not offering that at the moment. Jamal Musiala looked very bright when he came in, and should be given more minutes moving forward.