Bayern was the better of the teams, top to bottom. Many goals were expected, I did not think one would be enough for either side but the Coman header off a scoop pass stood the test of the rest of the time, 30' of the game. The ref did miss some things, a PK for Mbape as his foot was kicked out in the area, but was Lewandowski also fouled in the area, and Davies? Being consistent is what is asked of the man in the middle, but he did a great job, neither team should be taking issue, he let them play a bit when it got a bit physical but began to card players as the level raised.
Post game Davies gave thanks to those back in Canada for their support and more. "Robert Lewandowski is a goal machine. don't know what to say." From a back up born in a refugee camp to at 19 made all the ballots for the broadcasters in their top XI of the games. He is fully expected to be one of the best left backs world wide, high praise at 19. To have him described as a product of MLS is a bit more than a bit of a stretch. He spent all of 3 years with them, while 8 with the Edmonton Strikers, yes he may have developed at a faster rate with the 'Caps, but almost 3x as fast, unlikely. He is the prototype current outside back getting forward and not looking like a fish out of water. He did have his lack of experience exposed but to no harm today with the players he faced today. He became not just the first Canadian to win this game, much less to even play in it.
Though there was a great disparity in possession, a well over valued statistic, and Bayern did have the better of the play, it was a tight game. The back and forth was great , Neymar Jr. had a great chance, 2 tries on goal in one play with the GK making the final play while in mid air, making a kick save, it was a beaut. Far more chances came the way of Bayern, a number were played into Lewandowski but he was unable to convert those that reached him, hitting one post, a number were just off by a hair. By no means did I anticiapate Bayern keeping Di Maria, Neymar & Mbape off the score board, yes they were constant threats as at any time on the field but were unable to get it done in the end.
Bayern's Flick felt it was incredible how the team developed. They used the downtime due to COVID to their benefit. The second half showed they deserved to win. They brought back the fans by showing there is trust in the team and development in training. Moving forward they must win and train hard, the players have a great desire to win. Playing Coman was a great decision. The support of the fans though not present was felt, it was a shame they were not there, how they love the game in such a great stadium. Great to see the images for each player in messages in their own languages, referring to a video made to support them.
Lewandowski was very happy to win, would have liked to have gotten on the scoresheet. He said a lot more but the translation was not so good.
These teams will not be the same for long, they never are despite the deep pockets of both teams, they need to enjoy this while the can and make the most of the opportunities they create for themselves.