Bayern set off real attacking fireworks in the first round of the DFB Cup. They beat Bremer SV 12-0, despite top scorer Robert Lewandowski's absence. Instead, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting once again brilliantly deputised.
The 32-year-old led the Bayern attack and was convincing across the line. With four goals, he was the most successful scorer of the evening. The Cameroon international proved once again he knows exactly where a striker needs to be, and that he is always there when needed. "Whether you get a lot of game time or not, when you get your chance you have to grab it by the scruff of its neck. Every game is important," Choupo-Moting himself said calmly afterwards, even though he'd managed a personal best.
First career four-goal haul
"I think it's the first four-goal haul of my professional career. That's definitely nice," he said, happily. However, it would be wrong to reduce his performance in Bremen only to the goals he scored. Choupo-Moting assisted three more too. In addition, he was extremely committed throughout.
"Choupo did a great job, defended superbly," praised Julian Nagelsmann, before adding: "It's clear to me that a player with the ball always wants to do something, but I give him credit for defending so well. I always find it very commendable when someone with the standing he already has - he's an experienced Bundesliga player, he played for PSG and now for Bayern - gives [games like these] his all."
Important on and off the pitch
Joshua Kimmich was also impressed by Choupo-Moting's performance: "Choupo had a great game today. Athletically, he is someone we can always bring in. We don't have to worry," said the midfielder, before expanding: "Of course, he is a top footballer and always has an eye out for his teammates. But he is also super-important in the dressing room. He speaks many languages and always gives his all."
Good news for a coach who has such a good man up his sleeve. But Choupo-Moting didn't want to put too much stock on the performance. "The most important thing in football is to enjoy your work," grinned the Man of the Match, before he disappeared into the dressing room.
In a post-match interview, Choupo-Moting and Jamal Musiala recapped the game against Bremer SV:
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