The moment of relief came in the 88th minute on Friday evening. Robert Lewandowski converted a Serge Gnabry cross to seal FC Bayern's narrow 3-2 victory over SC Paderborn. "I'm satisfied with the result. The team fought until the end and showed great willpower to win. We achieved it," said coach Hansi Flick. Thanks to their 15th victory so far this campaign, Bayern are certain to retain their lead in the Bundesliga regardless of the results on Saturday.
The Bavarians quickly turned their focus to Tuesday's Champions League cracker away to Chelsea. "We want to lay the foundations for going through to the next round. It'll be crucial to achieve a good result," commented Thomas Müller. "We'll try to build on what has made us strong over the last few weeks and months."
Goretzka running
The Bayern pros returned to the Säbener Strasse on Saturday morning, toiling in the performance centre to be top fit for Tuesday's clash. Javi Martínez and Niklas Süle continued their individual rehab. Leon Goretzka, who missed the match against Paderborn with a muscular problem, turned in a few laps at the Säbener Strasse.
Bayern's full focus is on the Round of 16 first leg at Stamford Bridge. "Chelsea have a good blend, a few young and a few experienced players. Their pace is good, but we want to win there," said Joshua Kimmich. The team are "primed for Chelsea," declared captain Manuel Neuer: "London suits us! We'll give it everything to win the match."
Serge Gnabry made his 100th Bundesliga appearance on Friday and played a crucial role in the 3-2 victory over Paderborn 👇
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