Bayern Munich scored twice in two minutes to beat hosts AEK Athens 2-0 on Tuesday to continue their recovery from a recent dip in form.
The win helped them to climb to the top of their UEFA Champions League Group E.
Javi Martinez volleyed in after 61 minutes and Robert Lewandowski tapped in their second goal two minutes later for their second win in three group matches.
The result gave the Bavarians a further shot of confidence after Saturday’s league win at VfL Wolfsburg ended a four-game winless run in all competitions.
It also silenced any talk of a crisis.
The Greek champions did it well for about an hour, but ultimately could not match Bayern’s speed and power.
Bayern were in control of an entertaining first half, with Serge Gnabry and forward Lewandowski coming close several times.
AEK, who have yet to earn a point after three matches, carved out a couple of scoring chances as they caught the Bavarians off guard.
On one occasion, Ezequiel Ponce thundered a powerful shot narrowly wide.
The hosts piled on further pressure after the break, pressing high and coming close with Viktor Klonaridis before Martinez’ acrobatic volley silenced the crowd at the Olympic Stadium.
Bayern, who have never lost to a Greek club, home or away, quickly killed off the game two minutes later.
Lewandowski was left with too much space in front of goal to slot in a Rafinha cutback.
Bayern are now on seven points from three games, with Ajax Amsterdam who beat Benfica 1-0 later on Tuesday also on seven, while Benfica are on three.(NAN)
