Bayern Munich reclaimed top spot in the Bundesliga with a commanding 3-0 win over Union Berlin as the Rekordmeister sealed back-to-back home league wins to nil for the first time since October.
A severe snowstorm battered the Allianz shortly after kick-off, which added to the already frosty atmosphere surrounding underperforming Bayern Munich and under pressure Julian Nagelsmann.
The Rekordmeister showed little signs of nervousness, however, and Thomas Müller nearly converted Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting’s cutback, but a troop of Union Berlin defenders quickly snubbed out the danger.
Coming into this clash unbeaten in their last nine, surprise title-challengers Union Berlin were going to prove a stubborn opponent and the visitors displayed their intentions when a rapid break finished with Jérôme Roussillon, who forced Yann Sommer into a low save.
Bayern remained focused and soon showcased the attacking quality that produced a league-high 31 home goals this season by striking three times in quick succession.
Kingsley Coman first lifted a pinpoint cross to Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, which the forward met with a towering header into the top corner.
Coman then turned goalscorer as he raced on to Müller’s improvised through ball, dummied the onrushing Rønnow and passed into the net before Jamal Musiala capped his 20th birthday with a goal before HT, when he tapped in Müller’s low cross to put the Rekordmeister firmly in control.
Union Berlin’s hopes of a fourth consecutive Bundesliga away win were shattered and the visitor’s only second-half advance into Bayern’s penalty area ended with Sheraldo Becker firing over from close range.
That ensured damage limitation became the aim late on for the Iron Ones and Rønnow prevented late additions to the scoreline with reaction saves to keep out Müller and Alphonso Davies.
Victory for Bayern was essential in this top-of-the-table clash following a shock 3-2 loss at Borussia Mönchengladbach last time out, but Nagelsmann’s side will need further consistency to maintain their title defence.
After a 3-1 UEFA Europa League win against Ajax in midweek, fatigue seemingly caught up with Union Berlin, who were second best throughout, though Urs Fischer’s side are unlikely to be discouraged as they remain just three points behind Bayern.