Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick applauded his Hoffenheim counterpart Sebastian Hoeness for masterminding the Bundesliga champions' first defeat since December.
Flick's side came into Sunday's clash in Sinsheim on the back of a 2-1 extra-time win over Sevilla in the European Super Cup, perhaps explaining why Robert Lewandowski was rested and Joshua Zirkzee started.
Even if the talismanic Poland striker had started, it is difficult to imagine even him having the influence to halt a Hoffenheim side that played with great intensity and craft in attack as they secured a stunning 4-1 victory.