Goal.com
Manuel Neuer (6.0) : As has often been the case this season, had next to nothing to do. Made just one save, a tame volley from Flum in the opening minutes, and had not even a single corner to deal with.
Philipp Lahm (7.5) : Another inspired performance by the captain, who despite being withdrawn early, was incredibly active on the left flank. Linked well with Ribery and despite his size, was a monster of a ball-winner.
Holger Badstuber (7.5) : Very rarely called into action, but when he was, did just what was needed. Made two superb challenges after anticipating the ball in to Cisse. A new man under Heynckes.
Jerome Boateng (7.0): Sometimes was not quick enough to deny Cisse the ball, but never allowed himself to be troubled. Absolutely unyielding in the challenge, however; he quite clearly is better in the centre of defence, and Bayern look much better with him at the back than with Daniel Van Buyten.
Rafinha (7.5) : Reinstated in the starting line-up, the Brazilian was strong at the back and good in possession. In the first half alone, he found Ribery for Bayern's third goal, had a goalward volley blocked and another attempt deflected off the post. A bit quieter in the second half, but was present when it mattered most.
Franck Ribéry (8.5): Simply world class. Normally more a provider than a scorer, but he made it 2-0 following a predatory run, and completed his brace before half-time with an absolute wonder-goal. Set up Gomez for another, and was substituted on 73 minutes to a hero's applause.
Bastian Schweinsteiger (8.5) : Was a doubt for the game, but showed absolutely no signs of injury in arguably his best performance of the season. The numbers speak for themselves: he had a remarkable 133 touches of the ball and completed 92% of his 113 passes. Capped off a brilliant performance with an assist for Petersen's goal.
Toni Kroos (7.5): Was instructed by Jupp Heynckes to be more of a threat on goal, and responded immediately. Had a volley saved shortly before he assisted Gomez's opener, and almost set up another but was fractionally offside. A vastly improved performance in the #10 role from the youngster.
Luiz Gustavo Dias (7.5) : Perhaps the least assured of his role in the starting XI, the Brazilian justified his continued presence as he tirelessly ran around the midfield to win the ball back. His passing was nothing spectacular, but as a protector of the back line, he was exceptional.
Thomas Müller (7.5) : At the centre of the action as always, even if his influence was not always obvious. Played a huge role in splitting the Freiburg defence ahead of the first and second goals. All that was missing was a goal of his own.
Mario Gomez (Top of the Match, 9.0) : The goal machine is back at his best. Scored the opener, and assisted a second for Ribery before getting a second half hat-trick. And that was all before his substitution in the 73rd minute. To those who doubt his efficiency, know this: Gomez took five shots, and scored from four. |
