Bayern Munich, ratings and individual reviews against VfL Bochum: Two A's at the shooting festival - the Holding Eight provides meaningful numbers

Bayern storm back to winning ways against Bochum

After two competitive defeats, Bayern Munich returned to winning ways against VfL Bochum on Saturday, winning 3-0. Julian Nagelsmann's side put in a dominant display against the newly promoted side, with goals from Serge Gnabry, Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Müller.

Gnabry and Lewandowski on target as Bayern Munich ease past Bochum

Gnabry opened the scoring for Bayern in the 18th minute, tapping home from close range after good work from Alphonso Davies. Lewandowski doubled the lead in the 33rd minute with a header from a Joshua Kimmich cross. Müller added a third in the 65th minute, converting a penalty after Jamal Musiala was fouled in the box.

Bayern's Holding Eight provides positive signs

One of the most encouraging aspects of Bayern's performance was the performance of their Holding Eight, which consisted of Kimmich, Leon Goretzka and Marcel Sabitzer. The trio controlled the game in midfield, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the team to build on.

The Holding Eight also contributed to Bayern's attacking play, with Kimmich and Goretzka both creating chances for their teammates. Sabitzer also got on the scoresheet, scoring Bayern's third goal with a fine strike from outside the box.

Bayern's defense keeps another clean sheet

Bayern's defense also put in a solid performance, keeping a clean sheet for the third time in their last four games. Manuel Neuer was rarely tested, with Bochum only managing two shots on target all game.

The clean sheet was a welcome return to form for Bayern, who had conceded seven goals in their previous two games. It will give Nagelsmann confidence that his team is capable of defending well, even when they are not at their best.

Numbers don't lie: Bayern's dominance in numbers

The statistics from the game tell the story of Bayern's dominance. Bayern had 65% possession and completed 85% of their passes. They also had 20 shots on goal, compared to Bochum's 2.

The Holding Eight was particularly impressive in the passing game. Kimmich, Goretzka and Sabitzer completed 90%, 88% and 86% of their passes, respectively.

Conclusion

Bayern's victory over Bochum was a welcome return to form for the German champions. The team put in a dominant performance, with the Holding Eight playing a key role. The clean sheet will also give Nagelsmann confidence that his team is capable of defending well, even when they are not at their best.