Thomas Muller shines in Bayern Munich's DFB Pokal triumph

The German legend, in his first competitive game since retiring from international football, played a crucial role in ensuring Vincent Kompany's debut as Bayern's head coach ended in a resounding victory.

Muller, who had endured a trophy-less season with Bayern last term, showcased his prowess with two quick-fire goals and an assist. His performance earned him the man-of-the-match accolade, setting a high bar for Kompany's reign.

Bayern, featuring a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, took control early despite a shaky start.

In the 5th minute, Ulm's Bayern loanee Maurice Krattenmacher nearly put his side ahead with a long-range shot that drifted wide.

However, Bayern settled quickly, and Joshua Kimmich's perseverance in the 12th minute set up Muller for the opener. Muller calmly finished Kimmich's pass to give Bayern the 1-0 lead.

Just three minutes later, Muller doubled his tally. Serge Gnabry's precise pass from the right found Muller, who made no mistake with his finish. The opening half saw Muller continue to exploit space, almost adding to his goal tally.

After the break, Bayern appeared to ease off, and there was a moment of controversy when a potential handball by Gnabry went unpunished in the 64th minute.

The introduction of substitutes Harry Kane and Michael Olise injected fresh energy into Bayern's attack. In the 79th minute, Kane's long ball found Olise, who crossed for Kingsley Coman to score Bayern's third.

Muller nearly added an assist in the 86th minute, but Kane's effort was ruled out for offside.

However, Muller made amends in stoppage time, delivering a perfect chip for Kane to head home Bayern's fourth goal.

Bayern will face Grasshoppers in their final pre-season fixture before beginning their 2024/25 Bundesliga campaign against VfL Wolfsburg.

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag hails Joshua Zirkzee's match-winning Man Utd debut