Champions League: Bayern Munich sneak past Sevilla
What's the story
Bayern Munich took a major step towards sealing their spot in the Champions League semi-finals after they came from behind to secure a fortunate 2-1 win over Sevilla in the first leg encounter of the quarter-final. An own goal from former Manchester City winger Jesus Navas and Thiago Alcantara's header were enough to clinch the crucial victory for Bavarian giants. Here's our match report.
Crucial goal
Pablo Sarabia's goal gives Sevilla hope
Sevilla's Pablo Sarabia opened the scoring as the Spanish outfit got off to a brilliant start against the nervy German champions. Sarabia had missed a golden opportunity at the start but didn't miss out on the second chance in the 32nd minute to put the hosts ahead. Bayern had no answers to Sevilla's high-intensity football. Sevilla were better in the first half.
Deflected goals
Lucky Bayern claims first leg advantage
An injury to Arturo Vidal came as a blessing in disguise as he was replaced with James Rodrigues. Rodrigues helped the Bavarians control the ball better in the midfield. The game suddenly took a turn when Navas stretched his boot onto a Franck Ribery cross, which saw the ball deflect into his own goal post. Own goal by Navas was the turning moment.
Fortunate
Thiago grabs the winner for Bayern
Bayern upped the ante in the second half and Thiago Alcantara's header took a wicked deflection leaving Sevilla goalkeeper David Soria helpless. Bayern somehow managed to score 2 goals to extend their winning run in Europe to seven consecutive games. Bayern have failed to progress from only one of their 16 previous Champions League knockout-ties.
Twitter Post
Heynckes sets Champions League record
12 - Jupp #Henyckes (@FCBayernEN) is the first coach to win 12 consecutive games in the history of the champions league. Legend. #SEVBAY pic.twitter.com/bxXGuze8k5
— OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) April 3, 2018
Surprise package
Sevilla were tougher than expected
Since Jupp Heynckes took over Bayern, they have returned to form after a poor start to the season. The Germans will secure the Bundesliga title if they manage to win at Augsburg on Saturday, four days ahead of the return leg of the Champions League at the Allianz Arena. Sevilla would definitely face a tall order in Munich on April 11.