Lewandowski at the double to take Bayern through
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Article summary
Robert Lewandowski underlined his recent resurgence, scoring two and hitting the woodwork three times as Bayern came from behind to claim a win that ends PSV's ambitions.
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Bayern München came from behind in Eindhoven to beat PSV 2-1 and qualify for the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League with two games to spare.
The hosts took the lead early on when Santiago Arias headed in on the rebound after Davy Pröpper's close-range effort was expertly saved by Manuel Neuer.
Bayern were unfazed by the setback and equalised when Robert Lewandowski converted from the penalty spot after Andrés Guardado was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box.
The comeback was completed late in the second half when Lewandowski capped off a fine move with a simple finish from six metres.
Key player: Robert Lewandowski (Bayern)
Having rediscovered his goalscoring form in the Bundesliga last weekend, the Polish international made the difference for Bayern tonight, claiming two hugely important goals to see his side into the last 16. Lewandowski might easily have had more, but for a hat-trick of efforts denied by the woodwork.
Bayern finally win away in Europe
It had been 11 months since Bayern last returned to Munich from a UEFA Champions League away match with a win, but they did enough to take the points home tonight. Despite going behind on 14 minutes, Carlo Ancelotti's men put in a dominant performance and stayed patient against a resilient PSV.
Pride amid the fall for PSV
PSV took a bit of a battering in the opening period but still went in on level terms. Their tactic of soaking up pressure and striking on the break could therefore be judged a success. After half-time Bayern were still on top but less incisive, and often found too many bodies in the way when they worked the ball into the area. But with someone as lethal as Lewandowski around, there was a certain inevitability that the PSV defensive wall would finally crack. Still, Phillip Cocu will be proud of his players.
Reporters' views
Derek Brookman, PSV (@UEFAcomDerekB)
Arjen Robben once again proved his worth to Bayern with an excellent display. Together with Philipp Lahm he dominated the right flank throughout: his vision, touch and speed on the ball are all still exquisite. I'm sure he never thought when plying his trade in Eindhoven as a callow 17-year-old that he'd be back, playing at an even higher level, 15 years later.
Jordan Maciel, Bayern (@UEFAcomJordanM)
Bayern travelled to Eindhoven with the clear objective of claiming three points and hopefully securing qualification for the knockout stage. It wasn't a vintage offering by any means, yet PSV rarely troubled Neuer's goal and Ancelotti will be satisfied his side secured the result they set out to achieve.
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