Musiala helps Bayern to vital victory over Benfica

Bayern Munich ended a two-match losing run in the Champions League with a narrow win over Benfica.

Jamal Musiala struck the game’s only goal, giving the Bundesliga giants a 67th-minute lead by nodding in Harry Kane’s header across the six-yard box.

Bayern were the better side against a reserved Benfica team, with Kane and Serge Gnabry both having dangerous shots saved in the first half.

Second-half substitute Leroy Sane was also twice denied by Benfica keeper Anatoliy Trubin.

The German side needed a big performance having come under pressure in Europe.

After beating Dinamo Zagreb in their opening match 9-2, they lost 1-0 at Aston Villa and 4-1 in Barcelona.

But back at the Allianz Arena, Vincent Kompany’s side got a much-needed win and moved back into the top 24 places of the League Phase table, currently sitting 17th and level on points with Benfica in 19th.

Musiala’s fine form lifts Munich after bad start

Bayern may be recovering from a dip in form in Europe, but they lead the Bundesliga by three points and have won their past four matches; scoring 16 goals and conceding none.

Musiala has been instrumental in their current stretch and on Wednesday night he again troubled defenders with driving runs which created space for his team-mates.

The Germany midfielder has now netted five times across his past four matches in all competitions.

Three of those goals have been with his head. Intriguingly, a fortnight ago he had only ever scored two headers for Bayern.

The home fans continue to appreciate the 21-year-old who was given a standing ovation when he was replaced by Thomas Muller with a few minutes to go.