Bayern Munich were made to work hard as they secured a narrow 2-1 win over Lokomotiv Moscow in the UEFA Champions League. The Bavarians started the game well, taking the early lead through Leon Goretzka. But, they were never able to control the game, and when Lokomotiv levelled the scoring through Anton Miranchuk in the 70th minute, they had to rely on a late wonder-strike from Joshua Kimmich to secure all three points.
Bayern Munich Player Ratings Vs Lokomotiv
Manuel Neuer 8/10
Manuel Neuer had to remain strong and composed as Lokomotiv poured forward in numbers, especially during the final phase of the game. Bayern could have easily conceded at least two more goals had it not been for their goalkeeper.
Benjamin Pavard 6.5/10
Bombarded the right flank with direct runs into the byline, notably providing the assist for Bayern’s opener and was even close to creating another. The Frenchman should have done a lot better defensively.
Niklas Sule 5/10
It was a bad day at the office for Niklas Sule, who found it difficult to deal with the dynamic presence of the Lokomotiv attackers. He was found out of position multiple times.
David Alaba 5/10
David Alaba enjoyed a few good defensive moments thanks to some excellent tackles and clearances. However, the Austrian international unusually lacked discipline in his game, getting horribly exposed, at times.
Lucas Hernandez 5/10
Lucas Hernandez lacked the sharpness which has been evident all season so far. The Frenchman was indecisive in his defensive actions, though his pace was useful in dealing with the Lokomotiv attack.
Joshua Kimmich 7/10
Joshua Kimmich may have been a bit more competent in preventing the Lokomotiv midfielders from providing the forward passes. But, his creativity was a key aspect of Bayern Munich’s victory, with the midfielder most notably producing a marvellous finish to secure all three points at the end.
Leon Goretzka 7/10
Recovered the ball on more than one occasion and showed why he is one of the most underrated midfielders in Europe. Scored the first goal with a nicely placed header past Guilherme. Replaced at half-time.
Thomas Muller 6/10
Thomas Muller played a key role in Bayern Munich’s early pressure on Lokomotiv. He lost his touch during the late stages of the first-half as the opposition pushed forward. The German was eventually subbed at half-time.
Corentin Tolisso 6.5/10
Corentin Tolisso was always a reliable outlet for Bayern Munich, especially in the build-up play. He looked quite menacing with the ball at his feet but didn’t do much defensively.
Kingsley Coman 6.5/10
Kingsley Coman was a constant menace for the Lokomotiv defence down the left-hand side. He relentlessly probed the opposing backline with direct runs into the byline, though the Frenchman should have done a better job regarding his final ball.
Robert Lewandowski 6.5/10
Robert Lewandowski had very few opportunities to showcase his talents on the ball. But, the Pole was effective with his clever positioning, creating space for his teammates to work with. Had a clear penalty denied in the second half.
SUBSTITUTES
Serge Gnabry 6/10
Returned to the pitch after a false positive Covid-19 report. Didn’t do much after replacing Muller at the start of the second half, aside from a couple of good link-up moments.
Javi Martinez 5/10
Javi Martinez offered more physicality in midfield after replacing Goretzka at half-time. However, he offered very little protection for the Bayern Munich backline.
Douglas Costa 5/10
A bit of flair on the left flank after coming on for Coman. Nothing more.
