Bayern trio lead Champions League rankings after Chelsea demolition

Martin Macdonald

Robert Lewandowski became the joint-fourth top Champions League goalscorer of all time following his supreme performance against Chelsea which saw Bayern conquer the London side to win 3-0.

He played a part in all three goals, scoring one himself and assisting the other two.

After a goalless first half, the Pole twice set up Serge Gnabry within the first 10 minutes of the second period with a reversed, low cross into the box followed by a threaded pass down the left channel.

He would then take the game, and potentially the tie, away from Chelsea by scoring the third with a tap-in after some superb work from Alphonso Davies on the left flank.

Lewandowski simply proved too much to handle inside the box where he enjoyed nine touches, as he held off tackles with ease to bring his team-mates into the play.

While Lewandowski was the main creator on the night, Gnabry was the finisher, as he once again impressed on his return to London after previously plying his trade for Arsenal.

He displayed intelligence to pop up in the space inside the box to slot home for his first after his team-mate's pass.

The second, however, was excellent. After receiving a knock down from Lewandowski, he took possession forward before exchanging a one-two with the Pole, which allowed him to burst through on goal to coolly finish with his left foot into the bottom right corner.

He had 66 touches overall, and misplaced just five out of 37 attempted passes.

His two attacking team-mates will take most of the plaudits for Bayern's win at Chelsea, but Thiago's performance shouldn't be overlooked as he was magnificent in the middle of the pitch, bossing things for the Bavarians.

As well as dictating the tempo with his passing as he completed 71/77 passes, 13 of which were sent into the final thrid, he got stuck in, too.

He won 8/13 duels, 3/4 tackles, 2/3 aerial duels, and remarkably made no less than 17 ball recoveries as he ensured Chelsea failed to gain any momentum.

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