Bayern Munich took on Grasshopper Club Zürich in an oddly-time friendly, but the match served its purpose — which was to allow some veterans to shake off a little rust, give a few youngsters some additional first team playing time, and also provide Vincent Kompany one more opportunity to look at his players.
Bayern Munich took home a 4-0 victory and will now look forward to its Bundesliga opener this weekend against VfL Wolfsburg. Let’s get on with the Bavarian Football Works Match Awards...
Jersey Swap: Justin Hammel
Admittedly, it was slim pickings here. Justin Hammel was in consistent danger and stood tall at his goalkeeper position for Grasshopper Club Zürich. Bayern Munich’s finishing was not thoroughly on-point, which helped, but Hammel did not get beat on anything that anyone would consider to be an easy chance.
Der Kaiser: Leon Goretzka
Playing out of position, Leon Goretzka got a chance to prove his worth to the club — especially in the wake up the ill-timed injury to Josip Stanišić. In 61 minutes, Goretzka completed 61/63 passes (97%) and only lost possession twice. At a time where he needed to show a very strong effort, Goretzka was able to go out and perform. The midfielder gets a few bonus points for playing out of position in this match as well.
Something to note, though, if Adam Aznou get get a little more seasoning and play a little more under control, Bayern Munich will not have to lose any sleep about losing Alphonso Davies next summer. The youngster is still a little unrefined, but did some terrific things in the match against Grasshopper Club Zürich.
Fußballgott: Konrad Laimer
It was a typical, active day for the high-energy Austrian. Konrad Laimer is the fourth midfielder in a three-man rotation at the moment (for now, we can assume that Goretzka is still out of the mix), so every chance he gets to prove his mettle to Vincent Kompany is key. Laimer completed 97% of his passes, won three of his four ground duels, and only lost possession four times. and just was very, very strong overall.
Der Bomber: Mathys Tel
After coming on as a substitute, Mathys Tel was a complete menace and scored a banger of a goal in the 68th minute. Tel also completed 12 of 16 passes, won all three of his ground duels, and had a key pass. If you can find a video of his goal, you have to see it. What a touch and finish from the youngster.
Michael Olise received strong consideration here, but did lose possession 15 times in 61 minutes, which is something to keep an eye on. Otherwise, though, the former Crystal Palace winger made his presence known very early with a goal in the 12th minute. There is a certain air about him that exudes confidence and assurance...and a bit of danger as well. Bayern Munich might have picked a winner here. Aside of his goal, Olise completed 92% of his passes,
Meister of the Match: Harry Kane
Harry Kane is good at many things in football, but his true expertise lies in — and around — the box. His goal in the 47th minute — while not spectacular by any means — was the exact type that Bayern Munich needs out of him. Something born of being in the right place at the right time. Otherwise, Kane was solid in all aspects of the match as he completed 85% of his passes, including 4/5 long balls. Kane also won both of his aerial duel and all three of his ground duels, while only losing possession six times.
What did you think of our award selection? Who else deserves a shout? Let us know in the comments below!
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