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It was a game that only lasted 45 minutes. Bayern Munich proved to be the dominant side from start to finish, and the positive energy around Säbener Straße will continue despite last week?s hangover in Barcelona. Here are BFW?s observations from Bayern?s DFB-Pokal win against lacklustre Mainz 05:
Bayern the Professionals
The MEWA Arena was building up for what could have been the event of the year. For a club like Mainz 05, matchups against top teams like Bayern don?t come around often ? and you could feel the anticipation immediately. The atmosphere was electric from the start, with Mainz fans gearing up for a match they hoped would be unforgettable.
But Bayern, always the professionals, had other plans. Despite facing an atmosphere that any team might find intimidating, Bayern took the lead within 90 seconds, and after 45 minutes ? with 79% possession ? Bayern had effectively put the game to bed. Considering that even a powerhouse like Bayern can sometimes face shocking early exits in the DFB-Pokal (who can forget FC Saarbrücken and Holstein Kiel"), the team?s disciplined, professional approach today silenced any doubts early on.
Eric Dier?s still got it
Eric Dier was excellent during his first start of the season. With Dayot Upamecano and Kim Min-jae logging significant minutes, sometimes unconvincingly, it?s reassuring to know that Dier can step up in crucial matches and deliver a solid performance when...