Bayern Munich advanced to the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League in an emphatic fashion, as they registered a thumping 8-2 win over Barcelona. It was a complete onslaught from the Bundesliga champions, who were already coming on the back of a 7-1 drubbing of Chelsea in the last round. They now join RB Leipzig in the semis and are set to face the winners of Manchester City versus Olympique Lyon tie.
Bayern Munich Player Ratings Vs Barcelona
Manuel Neuer 7/10
Manuel Neuer showed why he is regarded as the best goalkeeper in Germany as he provided a composed display in between the sticks. Played out the role of a sweeper keeper and made a couple of important saves. Way better than his Barcelona counterpart.
Joshua Kimmich 8/10
Joshua Kimmich found it difficult to settle into the right-back role at first, notably allowing Luis Suarez to make runs in behind the defence. But, the German enjoyed much more freedom as the game progressed and notably scored a goal late in the game.
Jerome Boateng 8.5/10
Jerome Boateng was beaten by Suarez for the second goal from FC Barcelona. However, that was a minor blip in an otherwise solid performance from the ex-Manchester City. His ability to read the game prevented the Catalans from finding passes in between the lines.
David Alaba 8.5/10
Scored an unfortunate own goal to hand Barcelona an early equaliser. But, the Austrian ended up as one of the best performers of the night. His remarkable work-ethic, pace and composure allowed Bayern Munich to maintain a high defensive line throughout the ninety minutes. Also went forward whenever it was necessary.
Alphonso Davies 9.5/10
Alphonso Davies continues to make his mark in the world stage, providing an influential display at left-flank. His pace was just too much for Nelson Semedo, but it was the Canadian’s sensational run to feed Kimmich that caught the eye of the onlookers.
Thiago Alcantara 9/10
Thiago had a rusty start to the game before truly announcing himself in central midfield. A composed operator in the middle of the park, Barcelona found it difficult to dispossess the Spaniard, especially in the second half. A true anchorman in midfield.
Leon Goretzka 9.5/10
Leon Goretzka was one of the most key players for Bayern Munich in this win. His work ethic and ability to sense danger, combined with his eagerness to win back possession helped the Bavarians manically press the Barcelona ball-carriers throughout the game.
Thomas Muller 9.5/10
Thomas Muller enjoyed yet another excellent game, notably scoring the all-important early opener. The German made a host of clever runs to distract the Barcelona defenders and also provided a lot of key passes in the final third. One of the best of performances from the Ramdeuter in recent memory.
Serge Gnabry 10/10
Serge Gnabry was one of the best performers on the night. Operating in a more central role, the German international’s pace and tenacity caused havoc in the Barcelona defence. Scored the fourth goal as well, putting the game beyond all doubt.
Ivan Perisic 9.5/10
Definition of a big game player, Ivan Perisic showed his true quality with an excellent performance against Barcelona. He was a scourge for the opposing defence, often providing telling passes in the final third. Also scored the all-important third goal before making way for Kingsley Coman midway through the second half.
Robert Lewandowski 8.5/10
Robert Lewandowski was a livewire throughout the game. He was, however, a little unfortunate with the chances not coming his way. But that didn’t deter him from trying to help his teammates with some commendable work-ethic and the Pole was eventually rewarded with a goal late in the game. It was his 50th Champions League goal for FC Bayern.
SUBSTITUTES
Kingsley Coman 9/10
Replaced Perisic in the 67th minute and offered a spark in the final third with his pace and trickery. Indeed, the Frenchman made a host of darting runs in behind the backline and was a major reason behind Bayern’s strong finish to the game.
Philippe Coutinho 10/10
Came on against his parent club and showed exactly what they were missing as the Brazilian assisted Lewandowski for the sixth goal while scoring a late brace to further humiliate the Catalans.
Niklas Sule 7/10
Replaced Boateng during the final stage of the game as Hansi Flick opted for fresh faces in defence. Kept things tidy at the back.
Lucas Hernandez N/A
Replaced Davies late in the game as a precaution.
Corentin Tolisso N/A
A late replacement for Goretzka.
