Player grades as Bayern Munich bow out of the Champions League to Real Madrid

Bayern Munich once again dominate Real Madrid but waste their chances to bow out of the Champions League in the semi-finals.

Manager grade

Jupp Heynckes — B

Jupp did all that he could with the players at his disposal. Once again, Bayern Munich got into the position to win this match handily, and once again shot themselves in the foot. The treble dream is no longer alive for the Bavarians, but that’s not at all the fault of Jupp Heynckes.

Player grades

GK, Sven Ulreich — D

Sven Ulreich made a huge mistake. He’s been a hero this season, but let himself and his team down in the most important game of the season.

DEF, David Alaba — C

Having just returned from injury, David Alaba certainly could have been a little better against Real Madrid. He wasn’t particularly effective in attack, and got outsmarted by Karim Benzema, leading to Real Madrid’s equalizer.

DEF, Mats Hummels — B+

A rock at the back, Mats Hummels is not at all responsible for Bayern’s loss. He defended superbly and pushed his team forward in attack. A true leader in tough times.

DEF, Niklas Sule — B

Niklas Sule was solid at the back, and there’s not really a whole lot to add to that. At 22-years-old, Sule performed much better under the spotlight than many much more experienced defenders would have.

DEF, Joshua Kimmich — B+

Bayern Munich may have lost, but Joshua Kimmich can hold his head high. The German youngster has a bright career a head of him, if this semi-final fixture is any indicator. He perhaps could have done a little better to defend Marcelo on Real Madrid’s opener. But that would be the only blip on an otherwise fantastic display.

MID, Thiago — B-

Thiago was great in his defensive midfield role (similar to the one he often plays in the Spanish national team), playing pass after pass as smoothly as ever and giving a solid defensive display as well.

MID, Franck Ribery — C

Franck Ribery was not nearly as effective as he should have been against a weakened Madrid defense. More was expected from him in one-on-one scenarios, and he couldn’t produce with any of his crosses.

MID, James Rodriguez — B

The Colombian was once again instrumental for Bayern Munich against his former club. James held nothing back against Real Madrid, and his hard work earned him a goal against Real Madrid. It just wasn’t quite enough.

MID, Corentin Tolisso — C+

Corentin Tolisso was excellent in the first half, contributing heavily to Bayern’s attack. Although not entirely intentional, Coco got credit for assisting Kimmich’s opener. The Frenchman loses points, however, for putting Sven Ulreich in the difficult position that led to Real Madrid’s second goal.

MID, Thomas Muller — B-

The raumdeuter was typically all over the pitch in such an important match. He created Bayern’s opener, as well as a few other chances, but never grabbed a goal of his own.

FWD, Robert Lewandowski — C+

A much better performance from the Pole than the one we saw last week. Lewandowski tracked back and linked play well. He still, however, could not prove the difference maker for his team.

Next: Jerome Boateng is out for the rest of the season

Subs

FWD, Sandro Wagner — N/A

Thrown into the fray with 15 minutes remaining, Wagner’s game earned no grade.

MID, Javi Martinez — N/A

Came on for the final 6 minutes plus stoppage time. Javi didn’t play enough for a grade.