Bayern Munich began life without Niko Kovac with a 2-0 triumph against Olympiacos which secured their berth in the Champions League’s round of 16.
A tumultuous week for the Bavarians had seen the ex-Croatia international depart in the wake of their 5-1 humiliation at Eintracht Frankfurt. Caretaker Hans-Dieter Flick restored the likes of winger Kingsley Coman and Spain utility man Javi Martinez to the XI, at Allianz Arena though a frustrating first half witnessed France right-back Benjamin Pavard rock the post.
The breakthrough would eventually come in the 69th minute when prolific Poland No9 Robert Lewandowski volleyed in Coman’s cross to make it 21 goals in 17 games this term. Deserved victory was wrapped up in the 90th minute when substitute Ivan Perisic lashed into the roof of the goal, from close range, moments after coming on.
Here are the player ratings for Group B’s dominant side:
BAYERN MUNICH (4-2-3-1)
Manuel Neuer 6: Virtual spectator as Olympiacos attempted to steal a draw.
Benjamin Pavard 7: Versatile France defender was a positive force from right-back. Struck the post.
Javi Martinez 7: Revelled in just a third competitive start of the season. Launched Bayern attacks from deep.
David Alaba 6: Bayern’s crisis at centre-back was laid out by Alaba providing one half of an unconventional duo. Also showed how little attacking threat was expected from the Greeks.
Alphonso Davies 6: Teenager didn’t fire in enough crosses, yet his dribbling ability caused ruptures on first Champions League start.
Leon Goretzka 6: Recovery from thigh injury continues. Not yet at prolific best, as judged by several wayward shots.
Joshua Kimmich 8: An absolute crossing machine, even from defensive midfield where he pinged in a double-digit return.
Kingsley Coman 7: Provided the width Bayern fans had been crying out for under Kovac. Nice assist for Lewandowski. Almost forced dazzling opener in 35th minute.
Thomas Muller 5: Lacked assurance of old when ball came to him in the penalty box.
Serge Gnabry 6: Offered a constant threat, yet didn’t find the back of the goal.
Robert Lewandowski 7: Instinctively stabbed out a leg to volley Bayern into the lead. In form of his life.
SUBSTITUTES
Corentin Tolisso N/A: Burst forward to help tee up fellow substitute Perisic’s clincher.
Ivan Perisic N/A: Netted within moments of coming on.
Philippe Coutinho N/A: Injury-time run-out.
