Bayern Munich failed to finish in the top 8 of the Champions League league phase, but is through to the playoffs, after a 3-1 win against Slovan Bratislava in a match that could’ve used more goals and a matchday that could have used a little more luck. Here are some awards from the game.
Jersey Swap: Marko Tolic
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While Blackman and Barseghyan both had solid games, making many runs into the Bayern box on the break, the award goes to the goalscorer. Tolic came on as a substitute and was involved fairly quickly, having Bayern defenders chase him into the box. His 90th-minute goal came from a powerful shot that stood little chance of being saved from an incredibly difficult angle. He gets the award for that meteor strike of a goal alone.
Der Kaiser: Kim Min-jae
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Kim had a fantastic game both defensively and offensively. Kim did well to take the chances he could going forward while delivering a solid defensive performance that has become typical of the Monster. While there were some instances he could have done better while tracking back, there is not much to nitpick but a fair bit to praise. Despite a backline that has rarely ever played together, Kim maintained his composure and led the defense.
Fußballgott: Aleksandar Pavlović
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Pavlović had another great game. While playing in what seemed to be a single pivot in midfield, Pavlovic controlled the play and threaded the ball between attack and defense. He recorded 104 successful passes — the most of any player on the pitch, and his performance speaks for that statistic. Today he showed that he is capable of running the midfield well on his own, although a partner would certainly have helped prevent the numerous Slovan Bratislava run-ins.
Der Bomber: Michael Olise
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This was a tough choice between Olise and Thomas Müller, but Olise’s involvement throughout the game earned him this award. While Müller did score, he failed to convert many chances that could have given Bayern a greater qualification advantage. Olise was key in the final third. He created two big chances and was a big part of getting the ball into dangerous places throughout the game. He wins Der Bomber.
Meister of the Match: Joshua Kimmich
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Game after game, Kimmich reminds Bayern how invaluable he is to the team. Today, he started as a center-back while moving forward on the right flank in the game: and had yet another phenomenal showing, assisting the first goal and creating numerous strong scoring chances throughout the game. The trademark Kimmich lofted ball into the box was incredibly effective, as Kimmich himself got into the right positions to start attacks and create chances. He has mastered the art of chance creation, and no one does it better than him.
That’s that for the match awards. What did you think of the game? Do you agree with the awards? While this outcome may have been slightly disappointing, Bayern still have a fighting chance in the players: where they might face either Celtic FC or Manchester City. Who would you rather face? Tell us everything in the comments below!
