If there were any fears from the Germans’ win in Prague, they’re gone now. Die Mannschaft gave Norway a beating that is reminiscent of the Germany we’d expect, and the Bayern Munich stars helped fuel that performance.
After a shaky match against the Czech Republic, Germany racked up a resounding 3 points in World Cup qualifying against Norway. Had Germany lost in Prague, one could say that the Germans essentially made a 180 degree turn performance-wise. From top to bottom, Germany fired on all cylinders, looking sharp and ready for Russia.
Joachim Löw’s lineup featured a good mix of young blood as well as some reliable veterans to the squad. The veterans looked like the experienced hand guiding and bringing the best out of the youngsters.
Where there is impressive German display, there’s bound to be a few Bayern Munich players involved. Löw fielded Bayern Munich veteran Thomas Müller, along with Mats Hummels, Joshua Kimmich and new addition Sebastian Rudy. Let’s break down how the Bavarians did on the day.
Mats Hummels as composed as you’d expect
The Dortmund-turned Bayern Munich stalwart looked confident and fairly comfortable, most notably due to a more confident defense overall. The Bayern defender showed his composure and intervened to cut out any offensive play the Norwegians had. Whenever necessary, Hummels would double-up on Norway attackers along with his defensive teammates.
In addition, there wasn’t as much pressure on Hummels with more disciplined performances from the fullbacks. Jonas Hector had a much better showing this time around, with a more focused performance in attack and in defense. The Köln man was more precise with his passing, providing a pin-point low ball to set Özil’s sublime curled goal.
As great as it is to see Hummels defend so heroically, the whole back line looks better if one man isn’t doing all the heavy lifting.
Kimmich the heir to the throne
Like his partner on the left, Joshua Kimmich had an impressive show on the right. The rising star played with tenacity up and down the field. He looked confident and played productively in possession, rushing down the field driving the offensive play forward.
While not perfect, Kimmich was rarely caught losing the ball and was able to give some great long passes into dangerous areas. Of which, most notably was his assist to striker Mario Gómez to make it 6-0.
Like with Hector, Kimmich too found a good balance between defense and offense. Like a rottweiler, Kimmich tracked back and fought tenaciously to regain possession. If he’s expected to succeed the right-back throne at Bayern Munich and at Germany, this was another good example in favor of that.
Sebastian Rudy reliable in the midfield
Rudy seems the biggest surprise at both Bayern Munich and Germany. While not the most notable, he still seems like he’s up to the task to help command the midfield.
Sebastian Rudy played as a reliable compatriot to Kroos. He served as a capable passing outlet to transition the play across the field when one side of the field looked too busy. Rudy rarely put a foot wrong in his passing, and worked hard to help defend and not just ball-watch when out of possession.
Hopefully, Rudy keeps up this work-horse attitude on the pitch. If he does so, he’ll prove himself a crucial depth piece at Bayern Munich and Germany.
Müller the provider
While Müller just played one half, he sure reasserted his importance. In classic fashion, Thomas played the role of pseudo-forward well. While played out wide, Müller drifted in and out finding important pockets of space. In doing so, he got himself into dangerous positions.
In one instance, he made an excellent run pulling attention away from Werner and allowing himself to give a beautiful flicked pass to the latter to make it 3-0. At least just as impressive, a driving run out wide put him in position to deliver an immaculate cross to complete Werner’s brace.
Next: Bayern Munich: Arturo Vidal still wanted by AC Milan and Inter Milan
With the international break over, hopefully Carlo has payed close attention to the Bayern Munich performances abroad. Ideally, Ancelotti will look at this game and see how crucial Müller’s presence is on the field, on and off the ball.