Bayern München ended a three match winless streak with a hard fought, but deserved 3 – 1 away win over Wolfsburg. Over the international break Bayern faced a lot of criticism for their form in the previous few rounds. But they at least started to answer their critics here by beating a Wolfsburg side who lacked the fight necessary to beat a side with so much quality. Robert Lewandowski scored two, including a gift from right back William. In the second half a red card for Bayern and goal for Wolfsburg made the game tighter, but James made the points safe.

Bayern started the game like they knew the whole league were watching. The guests were the better side from the very start and quickly made chances as Wolfsburg were forced back inside their own half. Although the Bayern attack looked in confident mood, the defence looked a little shaky and allowed Wolfsburg a few half chances.

However the nerves were forgotten when Robert Lewandowski scored the opening goal of the game on the half hour mark. After going ahead the guests were the far better side and could easily have scored again before the break. James forced an excellent save from Koen Casteels. But with Bayern having almost 80% possession it was to clear to see who was ahead at the break.

The guests returned to the pitch after half time still in dominant mood as they aimed to close the game out as soon as possible. Wolfsburg made the job easy for their guests as William tried to head back to the keeper, but instead he simply laid the ball into the path of Lewandowski who easily converted.

The second goal should have put Bayern on the path to an easy win, but a second yellow card for Arjan Robben soon after Lewandowski’s goal gave the advantage back to the hosts. The foul was very soft, but Wolfsburg made use of the extra man with Wout Weghorst scoring minutes after Robben’s red card.

The guests were certainly challenged late in the game as Wolfsburg sensed their chance for a comeback. But even if the away side were forced to sit on the back foot and try to defend largely, they still showed the quality needed to be the current league champions. A swift attacking move including Thiago and Lewandowski ended with James applying a cultured finish. Wolfsburg did their best to make the game tight, but Bayern were able to hold on and secure the win.

Bayern deserved their win here, but they know that tougher games await them. The Bayern players will take confidence from the way they performed here though as they prepare for a midweek Champions League tie. Wolfsburg however have now not won in six matches and the pressure will begin to grow on Bruno Labbadia and his side.