Bayern Munich player ratings vs. Benfica: A night of dominance for the Germans

GK: Manuel Neuer 7/10

Neuer did not have to make a great deal of saves throughout this match, but two in particular really kept Bayern in control. A first half save at his near post was matched by a great reflex save on a corner to keep Benfica off the scoresheet late in the second half. Neuer also played much of the first half with the ball at his feet, and his distribution was vital to Bayern’s possession.

RB: Joshua Kimmich 6/10

Kimmich had a bit of a struggle this match. An early yellow card took a lot of the usual spark and vigor out of his game. He still played well on the right side, getting forward and affecting the game on both sides of the ball. Kimmich has had problems with keeping his emotions in check in the past, and this game was another instance where he somewhat lost the plot.

CB: Jerome Boateng 8/10

The backline for Bayern was stellar for the full 90 minutes. Apart from one or two giveaways, Boateng played like a brick wall. He constantly cut out passes and won numerous headers. His clearances were timely and his defensive mindset was just what Neuer needed to keep the cleansheet.

CB: Mats Hummels 8/10

Hummels also had a near perfect match in defense. He made four successful tackles and committed just one foul the whole match. Hummels is not as quick as Boateng, so he often played a bit deeper to make last ditch tackle. Both Hummels and Boateng shut down most of the chances Benfica tried to create.

LB: David Alaba 8/10

Alaba was a menace up and down the left side for Bayern. He often pushed high up the field to allow Ribery to play as a left winger instead of a midfielder. Alaba’s overlapping runs were too much for Benfica to handle, and his assist on Lewandowski’s goal came as a result of it. He also won a fair amount of aerial duels, which cut down on the crosses that Benfica could whip into the box.