Bayern take 2-0 first leg lead against Juventus

Munich, April 3 (IANS) David Alaba and Thomas Mueller scored as Bayern Munich beat Juventus 2-0 at the soldout Allianz Arena here, in the first leg of Champions League quarterfinals Tuesday.

Juventus suffered their first loss in the Champions League as Bayern’s Alaba and Mueller kept their side on track bringing a 2-0 advantage into the second leg in Turin, reports Xinhua.

The German giants made a dream start against the Italians as Austrian international David Alaba broke the deadlock with a left-footed hammer from 30 metres, which was deflected by Arturo Vidal, to beat flat footed Gianluigi Buffon with only 26 second on the clock.

The opener gave the hosts a boost meanwhile Juventus were unable to gain a foothold in the game. Only Italian veteran Andrea Pirlo was able to threaten Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer with a dangerous free kick.

The Bavarians piled on the pressure after the introduction of Arjen Robben, who was fielded due to an injury to Toni Kross in the 16th minute. He nearly got his name on the scoring sheet but Buffon saved his smartly saved his shot from close range.

The Italians almost punished the Bavarians for they wastefulness as Alessandro Matri headed Pirlo’s corner just over the bar seconds before the interval.

The Germans ensured a thrilling second half, as their one goal lead seemed a fragile matter.

However, things changed in the 63rd minute when Thomas Mueller tapped in a Mario Mandzukic square ball inside the box following a spilled effort by Buffon.

“We are glad to have won with a clean sheet against an Italian side and I am delighted by the way we did. My team dominated the Italian champions over long periods. This was a remarkable performance of my team,” Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes said.

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