Serge Gnabry scored a hat-trick and grabbed two assists as Bayern Munich swept aside VfB Stuttgart 5-0 in the Bundesliga.
Bayern Munich continued their winning run in the Bundesliga by securing a comprehensive 5-0 victory over VfB Stuttgart on Tuesday. The win helps them momentarily extend their lead to nine points at the top of the table whilst confirming their position as the Herbstmeister.
Although the scoreline may suggest otherwise, it was a bizarre game for Bayern, who had started the game on the backfoot. They were caught surprised by Stuttgart’s interesting and a rather brave approach that saw them try to keep possession against the Bavarian outfit. The hosts were also quite solid in the defensive department, barely allowing any clear cut opportunity for the majority of the first half.
Unfortunately for them, a turnover in a dangerous area allowed Serge Gnabry to open the scoring in the 40th minute, giving Bayern a valuable lead heading into half-time. Stuttgart responded well after the restart, maintaining pressure on the defence and even creating two clear cut goalscoring opportunities.
But their inability to convert chances cost them at the end, with Gnabry doubling Bayern’s lead in the 53rd minute, almost against the run of play. The goal broke the rhythm of Stuttgart, who looked defensive shaky afterwards. It paved the way for Robert Lewandowski to bag a brace before Gnabry eventually completed his hat-trick in the 72nd minute. Here, at The Hard Tackle, we will rate the Bayern Munich players in their comprehensive win over Stuttgart.
Manuel Neuer: 6/10
Despite all the pressure from the Stuttgart attackers, Manuel Neuer had very little to do as the majority of the chances were missed by the opposition. In fact, the hosts registered only one shot on target, leading to a surprisingly easy clean sheet for the Bayern Munich shot-stopper.
Benjamin Pavard: 7/10
Benjamin Pavard had difficulties keeping up with some of Stuttgart’s attacking plays in the first half. However, the right-back was a major threat going forward, even getting close to scoring a goal. Pavard can indeed become one of the best in Europe if he can polish up his defensive skills.
Niklas Sule: 8/10
Starting ahead of Dayot Upamecano, Niklas Sule produced a brilliant defensive display at the heart of the Bayern Munich backline. He was secure in possession while using his body to neutralise the threat of Omar Marmoush on the counter. It was a performance worthy of handing him the man of the match title had it not been for some of the attackers in his team.
This game has been a complete monsterclass from niklas sule
— T.y (@_enter_galactic) December 14, 2021
Lucas Hernandez: 7.5/10
While Sule was certainly the best defender for Bayern on the night, Lucas Hernandez’s pace and athleticism were a useful asset, especially when dealing with the pace of the Stuttgart forwards. It won’t be surprising to see him retain his partnership alongside Sule in the upcoming game against Wolfsburg.
Alphonso Davies: 7.5/10
Alphonso Davies used his pace on the far side to make life difficult for the Stuttgart defenders. But more importantly, it was useful in helping him keep up with the pacy Tanguy Coulibaly on the left flank.
Marc Roca: 7/10
Marc Roca was given a rare opportunity by Julian Nagelsmann in the absence of Leon Goretzka, Joshua Kimmich and Marcel Sabitzer. In response, the Spaniard did well, holding the fort in the middle of the park and giving his partners the freedom to push forward. A chance well taken by the former Espanyol starlet.
Jamal Musiala: 8.5/10
Jamal Musiala recovered from an injury to start in central midfield for Bayern. The youngster didn’t disappoint either, producing a valiant effort in the middle of the park. While Musiala’s attacking and creative prowess are never questioned, what truly caught the eye was the German’s defensive output as he made a series of excellent tackles while tracking back when necessary. Bayern certainly have a gem on their hands.
As a natural attacker,Musiala’s ability to play in deep midfield areas gets more impressive with each game. His line-breaking pass led to Bayern’s 2nd goal & his ball recovery led to the 4th goal. Unique for a teenager to look so comfortable in both the middle & attacking thirds.
— Premier League Panel (@PremLeaguePanel) December 14, 2021
Kingsley Coman: 6/10
Kingsley Coman didn’t look particularly threatening as Stuttgart fared well in the second line of press. It was the case at least during the first phase of the game, before the winger’s night was cut short due to injury.
Thomas Muller: 7.5/10
Thomas Muller was not among the most active players on the pitch, especially in the first half. But the German international showcased his game intelligence by positioning himself at the right place at the right time and creating spaces for his teammates. He most notably bagged the crucial assist for Gnabry’s second goal, taking his tally to 12 for the season.
Serge Gnabry: 10/10
Serge Gnabry was by far Bayern Munich’s best performer in the first half, which is no surprise why he was the one opening the scoring just before the half-time whistle. The winger then stepped up his game in the second half by causing all sorts of trouble for the Stuttgart centre-backs, especially on the counter. The hat-trick should certainly boost his confidence after a difficult few weeks.
Bayern Munich’s 5 goals vs. Stuttgart today:
⚽️ Serge Gnabry goal
⚽️ Serge Gnabry goal
?️ Serge Gnabry assist
?️ Serge Gnabry assist
⚽️ Serge Gnabry goalRidiculous. ?? pic.twitter.com/GclUVxzxPn
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) December 14, 2021
Robert Lewandowski: 8/10
Robert Lewandowski largely had a quiet game, thanks to the solid defensive foundation of the Stuttgart back-three. But the Pole showcased his lethal goalscoring prowess by taking advantage of the chances that came in his way. The forward was unlucky not to score a hat-trick, as he hit the bar in his third attempt late in the game.
Substitutes
Leroy Sane: 8/10
Leroy Sane made a noticeable impact on the proceedings after replacing the injured Coman just before the hour-mark. He asked more questions of the Stuttgart defenders using his quick-feet, while his link-up play with Davies was fundamental to Bayern’s dominance in the second half. The winger also made a solid impression with his defensive work rate.
Malik Tilman: N/A
A late replacement for Gnabry. Did not play enough to warrant a rating.
Tanguy Nianzou: N/A
A late replacement for Roca. Did not play enough to warrant a rating.
Michael Cuisance: N/A
A late replacement for Muller. Did not play enough to warrant a rating.
Omar Richards: N/A
A late replacement for Davies. Did not play enough to warrant a rating.
