Bayern Munich secured a 1-0 win over Werder Bremen thanks to Thomas Müller's first-half strike.
Bayern build into the game and deservedly lead at the break
It was a rather cagey opening at the Weserstadion, which was understandable given that Werder had tasted defeat in each of their last four games. It was actually the hosts who managed to create the first opportunity, and Melvyn Lorenzen forced Manuel Neuer into a steady save. Bayern felt they should have had a penalty moments later, and Alejandro Galvez's push on Robert Lewandowski could have been penalised.
Bayern were doing their utmost to breakthrough but Bremen were more than holding their own. The visitors were controlling possession and the play, though the deep-lying defence of their opponents was proving tough to crack. A diving header from Lewandowski that brushed the side-netting should have been their wake-up call, but they didn't take notice.
A wonderful ball into the box from Thiago was controlled with ease by Thomas Müller. He timed his run to perfection and while the Bremen defence was appealing for offside, Müller had rounded the helpless Felix Wiedwald and passed in to the near post area. A well-worked goal that notched up his ninth goal of the season.
Bayern continued to pressure their hosts in the hope of adding to the lead, although a staunch defensive action from the Weserstadion outfit managed to see them out until half-time. The Bundesliga champions were looking at a tenth consecutive win against Bremen, and a ninth this season.
Bremen fight back but can't get level
They maintain that form after the break and showed a real desire to kill the game off before the latter stages. Müller, looking for a second, came steaming in at the back post but his desperate headed effort went wide. Arturo Vidal almost found Lewandowski with a tempting cross, only for the Pole to be flagged offside.
It was routine for Bayern but they could so easily have given up the lead after a Juan Bernat mistake. He misjudged a header and Anthony Ujah was ready and waiting to pounce. The Nigerian forward brought the ball down brilliantly, but Manuel Neuer made a vital save to keep his side in front.
As Lewandowski had another penalty appeal turned down, Ujah had a similarly good chance to try and level. He broke past the Bayern back-line but Jerome Boateng's presence forced him to drag his shot wide from a great position.
That was the way it finished, with Pep Guardiola's side coming out worthy winners despite the late concern. Bremen's rotten run continues, but there was plenty of encouragement to take from this clash.