He's struck again! Leon Goretzka scored the decisive goal in FC Bayern's hard-fought 2-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach - his sixth goal in the second half of the campaign. The 25-year-old international supported Joshua Kimmich in a more defensive role against the Foals, mainly due to changes made. However, this did not stop Goretzka from repeatedly making his dangerous attacking advances.
Pavard's perfect overview
Absolutely unerring: Goretzka has scored all six of his league goals in the second half of the campaign.
The final phase of this hard-fought, top-of-the-table clash was already in progress, when Benjamin Pavard crossed into the box from the right. The Frenchman played a pinpoint pass to the onrushing Goretzka, who scored the match-winner in the 86th minute. Like a true striker, he deftly poked the ball into the net, leaving Gladbach keeper Yann Sommer powerless.
Praise from the skipper
Pavard's pass to Goretzka was his fourth assist of the season
"The emotions after the game are very positive," said the relieved scorer of the winner after the final whistle, before continuing: "I'm overjoyed to score such a late goal for the win, which will allow us to win the title on Tuesday. It was incredibly difficult today." FCB captain Manuel Neuer also had words of praise for Bayern's midfielder: "Leon has good athleticism, can get in front and make fast runs. We've seen it many times: he doesn't only set up goals, he can also score them."
Match ball in Bremen
With his winning goal, Goretzka set the course for the eighth consecutive championship title and provided the Bavarians with their first match point. If they beat Werder Bremen on Tuesday, FCB can no longer be toppled from their perch. After the Gladbach victory, Goretzka also set focus straight: "We want to win away to Bremen and take the title home then and there!
David Alaba led Bayern's defence in the win against Gladbach and reached a special milestone in the process - you can find more about his milestone here:
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