Thomas Muller leads Bayern Munich to 3-1 win with pair of assists

MUNICH, GERMANY - OCTOBER 26: David Alaba (C) of Munich celebrates his goal to 3-1 for Munich with Arturo Vidal (L) and Thiago (R) during the DFB Cup second round match between Bayern Munich and FC Augsburg at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany on October 26, 2016. (Photo by Joerg Koch/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
MUNICH, GERMANY - OCTOBER 26: David Alaba (C) of Munich celebrates his goal to 3-1 for Munich with Arturo Vidal (L) and Thiago (R) during the DFB Cup second round match between Bayern Munich and FC Augsburg at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany on October 26, 2016. (Photo by Joerg Koch/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

The two Bavarians faced off this week for the first of two meetings this week, with Bayern Munich coming out on top.  Bayern was lead by their first string, but second string players stepped up to deliver in Bayern’s 3-1 win.

Bayern Munich
MUNICH, GERMANY – OCTOBER 26: Philipp Lahm (C) of Muenchen celebrate with his team mates after he scores the opening goal during the DFB Cup second round match between Bayern Muenchen and FC Augsburg at Allianz Arena on October 26, 2016 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by A. Beier/Getty Images for FC Bayern)

Bayern Munich got off to a quick start against FC Augsburg.  Philipp Lahm opened Bayern Munich’s scoring tab in the second minute of play, by burying a right footed shot in the side netting from the middle of the penalty box.  Thomas Muller found Lahm with space and slipped him the ball, netting his first assist of the night.

Bayern went on to hold a majority of possession through the half, though it was not always the dominate play we generally see from them.  Augsburg had some moments where they looked dangerous on the counterattack, but they were unable to convert a chance until the second half.

Before the half though, the young American Julian Green was able to double Bayern’s lead of fa well played cross from Thomas Muller.  This was Green’s first goal for Bayern in a competitive match, it came at a great time for the American.  After scoring two goals in two games for his county in a set of friendlies, this continues his good run of form when he sees minutes.

Next: Julian Green Has Nothing to Lose

The second half also featured two penalty kicks: one for Bayern and one for Augsburg.  Manuel Neuer came up huge for Bayern by saving Koo Ja-cheol’s shot from the mark, while Thomas Muller fired his shot from the mark over the crossbar.

David Alaba solidified Bayern Munich’s  spot in the 3rd round of the DFB-Pokal, by converting a chance from long range in stoppage time.  This goal was important for a couple reasons.  First, it ensured their spot in the next round of the tournament.  It also showcased the fact that Alaba can play just about anywhere on the field with confidence and precision.  Lastly, it will help Bayern garner momentum for their match on Saturday against Augsburg in Bundesliga play.