Bayern Munich continued their excellent run of form by securing a 2-1 win over 1.FC Koln on Saturday. The Bavarians were marginally the better side for the most part, with goals from Thomas Muller and Serge Gnabry helping them seal all three points although a late goal from Domenick Drexler saw a nervy end to the game.
Bayern Munich Player Ratings Vs 1.FC Koln
Manuel Neuer 6/10
Didn’t have much to do aside from clearing an early mistake from Jerome Boateng, though the goalkeeper was unlucky to concede the late goal from Drexler.
Benjamin Pavard 4/10
Benjamin Pavard had a horrid time defending against the threat of Ismail Jakobs on the right flank. He was unsettled by the sheer pace and perseverance of the Koln attackers throughout the game.
Niklas Sule 6/10
Niklas Sule’s imposing frame was always a bonus for Bayern Munich, but it wasn’t the sharpest of performances from the German international.
Jerome Boateng 6.5/10
Made an early mistake that almost gifted Koln an opening goal, but recovered well after that, keeping Sebastian Andersson in his pocket for the most part of the game. Had nervy moments late in the game.
Bouna Sarr 6.5/10
Bouna Sarr was solid for Bayern Munich in the first half, moving forward when necessary and providing adequate defensive support.
Javi Martinez 6.5/10
Passed the ball around in midfield, providing assurance in the possession phases. Occasionally made a tackle or two. Nothing spectacular.
Joshua Kimmich 7/10
Joshua Kimmich ruled the show in the middle of the park, especially in the first half. His ball recoveries, aggression and leadership were key in denying Koln a way back into the game. Created the turnover that led to the second goal as well.
Serge Gnabry 6.5/10
Serge Gnabry wasn’t involved in the game too much, but his sublime strike late in the first half helped him secure the winner for Bayern Munich.
Thomas Muller 7.5/10
Thomas Muller was a lively figure in the Bayern Munich attack. The German responded well to the absence of Lewandowski, notably winning a penalty and converting it to score the opener. A hard-working display in the final third.
Leroy Sane 5/10
A quiet game for Leroy Sane, who struggled to get on to the ball much. Also failed to produce a single shot on target, before making way for Douglas Costa in the second half.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting 4/10
Starting in place of Robert Lewandowski, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting was sloppy with the ball at his feet and failed to make good opportunities for himself in the final third. He just doesn’t have the quality to excel at a club like Bayern Munich, it seems.
SUBSTITUTES
Douglas Costa 6/10
Replaced the ineffective Sane late in the game, offering a bit more dynamism and pace on the left flank. Unfortunately, the final ball was just missing.
Joshua Zirkzee 6/10
Linked up well with Muller and company late in the game, but the penetration was lacking.
David Alaba 6.5/10
Offered a bit more defensive coverage to the centre-backs after replacing Martinez during the final phase of the game.
Marc Roca N/A
A late replacement for Gnabry.
