Goal-guarantor Ribery lays down marker in Wolfsburg
After a lengthy battle with injury, things are suddenly looking up for FC Bayern München's Franck Ribery.
Get the all-new Bundesliga app!
The Frenchman made all the difference after replacing Arjen Robben in the 56th minute on Matchday 23 as the Bundesliga leaders overcame last season's runners-up VfL Wolfsburg to the tune of 2-0 at the Volkswagen Arena.
Match report: Wolfsburg 0-2 FC Bayern
Game-changer
Delighted, however, does not do justice to the current mood in the Bayern camp. Despite having only one recognised central defender in the squad, the defending champions are resiliently holding their own in the Bundesliga, DFB Cup and UEFA Champions League. Now they are just a fit Mario Götze shy of being in a position to unleash the most enviable forward line in football on the watching world.
With the business end of the season looming large, Guardiola's master plan is taking shape. He already boasts a treasure trove of attacking talent, but it is the match-winners - the experienced heads - that tend to make the real difference when it comes to the crunch. In that regard, Ribery's comeback could not have been more timely.
Alexander Barklage/ Christopher Mayer-Lodge
Want more Bundesliga Action?