- Like against Barcelona in the semis, Bayern seem to have adopted a "let them play" kind of gameplan. Though no damage has been done yet, Dortmund took the bait and turned it around quite brilliantly. There should have been no surprises tonight, but I dont think Bayern expected quite as much punch right from kick off.
- Arjen Robben. Found himself with the ball in two really good positions. Perhaps the best scoring opportunities of the half for either side. First he chose to shoot with the left instead of switching feet to open up the angle, or passing it to a wide open Mario Mandzukic. The second was one-on-one and needed a toe poke almost anywhere except he sent it. Bayern cannot afford to miss any more of these chances and Robben will be key, as he was in the semis.
- Gundogan is bossing the midfield. He has a massive engine, but is unlikely to be able to do be all over the pitch for the whole game. Sven Bender will need to get more involved. Jacob Blaszcykowski is proving a real attacking force down the right flank and Reus is good as ever in the hole. Maybe the left flank needs to get in there to mix it up a little.
- Bayern has superiority in the air and will prove a threat on set plays. Though it has been a very open first half, except some action from free kicks and corners.
- Manuel Neuer has been exceptional in the Bayern goal. Given that Lewandowski is my bet to get the first goal, he will need to be on it tonight. Thats the duel to watch out for.
Now its back to the football.
