Red Star out but four still in the running

Bayern still have work to do if they are to reach the last 32 of this season’s UEFA Cup. The Reds were not in action on the fourth matchday in Group F, when the only team definitely knocked out were Red Star Belgrade, beaten 1-0 at home by Bolton Wanderers.

English Premier League side Bolton took the points at the Marakana stadium in the Serbian capital with a goal from captain Gavin McCann on the stroke of half-time. The Trotters now lead the section on six points, but have completed their fixtures and must await developments in the last round of matches on 19 December before knowing whether they are through.

Braga still in contention

In the evening’s other match, Aris Salonika and SC Braga played out a 1-1 draw. Roland Linz fired the Portuguese visitors ahead on just six minutes, but Guiaro Ronaldo struck a deserved equaliser for the Greeks, who join Bayern on five points but move ahead of the Bavarians into second on goal difference.

After a third draw in succession, Braga can seal a berth in the next round with a win by at least two clear goals at home to Red Star on the last day. Regardless of whether the Portuguese hit that target, a draw at home to Aris will be enough to see Bayern through to the knockout stage of the competition.

Winning group brings benefits

However, the Bavarians can only win the section by beating Aris. Top spot in the group brings a number of advantages: a tie against a side which finished third in one of the other groups, and the return match at home. Finishing second entails a meeting with one of the eight teams entering the competition from the Champions League.