UEFA Champions League
Bayern Burn Benfica
Bayern Munich were back to the old ways with a dominate display of football today. Munich, who have had trouble all year in league play, were able to get a much needed rout today. The boys from Benfica found themselves victim to vintage play of Frank Ribery and Arjen Robben. Niko Kovac was looking for a big result today to solidify his job security for a few more weeks after a rough start in the Bundesliga.
Vintage Robben
Arjen Robben didn’t need long to show that he still has what it takes to win big matches. It only took 12 minutes for vintage Robben to exhibit the class that he has always been known for. The Dutchman would score off his desired left foot after a piercing run down the flank that left the defense in shambles. Robben would shortly later get his brace after beautifully found by Thomas Muller. As elementary as the alphabet, the defense once again allows Robben to cut in on his left foot. Bayern’s offensive fluidity that had clearly been missing lately clearly more prevalent today. Lewandowski would finish the half with a goal himself. Lewandowski’s goal was his 50th Champions League goal. Only the seventh player in the Champions League history to reach 50 goals.
Continued Excellence
Benfica’s early goal in the second half was a glimmer of false hope that eventually lead to more turmoil. The second half would consist of more of the same. Lewandowski would join Robben and in netting his brace for the match as well. The give and go link up between Alaba and Ribery down the flank was something Benfica had no answer for. The uninspiring defense was able to get Ribery on the scoresheet. Benfica’s hot start at the beginning of the second half was merely a blip and was quickly exhausted. The 5-1 drubbing was reflected the supremacy in Bayern’s performance.
Back To The Basics
Bayern Munich were able to enjoy a stroll in the park and right into the final 16 of the Champions League. Bayern will be looking to obtain their sixth champions league title with their last coming in 2013. They were able to escape the match with no injuries and able to get Woo-Yeong Jeong his first senior debut for the team. Bayern will look to get back on track when they face 7th place Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga this upcoming weekend. Bayern are currently nine points off the title leaders and rivals Borussia Dortmund. Although Bayern are already through the next round, they will have to wait two weeks till their match with Ajax to try and clinch the group.
Photo credit to Dickson Dagogo via Flickr
