Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) has once again received high praise and has been recognized for his skills.

Bayern Munich defeated Bayer 04 Leverkusen 2-0 in the second leg of the Round of 16 of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League (UCL) at the BayArena in Leverkusen, Germany, at 5 a.m. on the 12th (Korean time). After winning the first leg 3-0, Bayern advanced to the next round with a combined score of 5-0.

On that day, Bayern deployed their strongest lineup. After their 3-0 victory in the first leg, they rotated their squad for the league match against Bochum over the weekend but suffered a 2-3 defeat. However, thanks to giving key players a rest, they were able to field all core players in this match.

Bayern placed Harry Kane at the front, while Kingsley Coman, Michael Olise, and Jamal Musiala supported him from the second line. The midfield was handled by Konrad Laimer and Leon Goretzka, and the defense was built by Alphonso Davies, Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, and Joshua Kimmich. The goal was guarded by Jonas Urbig.

Excluding Manuel Neuer, who was injured while celebrating a scoring opportunity in the first leg, Bayern effectively deployed their best lineup. On the other hand, Leverkusen felt the absence of their ace Florian Wirtz due to injury.

Having already led 3-0, Bayern displayed stable game management. In contrast, Leverkusen attempted to attack using long balls and crosses centered around forward Patrik Schick, but Kim Min-jae repeatedly made crucial defensive plays to thwart their momentum.

Leverkusen faced a setback when Mario Hermoso was substituted due to injury in the 38th minute of the first half. In the 44th minute, a header from Schick struck the crossbar during a corner kick situation, but it did not result in a goal. Then, in the 45th minute, Leverkusen had a counterattack opportunity, but Kim Min-jae used astonishing speed to catch up and block the opponent's attack. The first half ultimately ended in a 0-0 draw.

As the second half began, Bayern scored the opening goal. In the 53rd minute, Bayern earned a free kick in the opponent's territory, and Kimmich, serving as the kicker, delivered an accurate cross. During this process, Kim Min-jae drew the opposing defense out and created space, which Kane seized to finish effortlessly and take the lead.

In the 71st minute, Alphonso Davies scored an additional goal, sealing Bayern's victory. Throughout the match, Kim Min-jae maintained solid defense and thoroughly contained Leverkusen's key forward Jeremy Frimpong. Ultimately, the game ended in a 2-0 victory for Bayern.

In this match, Kim Min-jae delivered an outstanding performance. He notably dominated Frimpong with his quickness and strong physicality.

In the 44th minute of the first half, when Frimpong received the ball in the defensive area, Kim Min-jae approached with unbelievable speed and blocked the opponent's advance. Then, in the 82nd minute, when Frimpong attempted another break, Kim Min-jae again used higher speed and strong physicality to disrupt the opponent's control of the ball.

The most overwhelming moment came in the 87th minute. Frimpong had a one-on-one chance just outside the penalty box, but Kim Min-jae approached with explosive speed from behind, blocking the ball and completely neutralizing the opponent. After this moment, Frimpong hung his head, unable to hide his disappointment.

Kim Min-jae's match record was close to perfect. He registered 1 successful tackle, 2 blocks, and 10 clearances. Notably, he had 7 headed clearances, demonstrating overwhelming prowess in aerial duels. He also recorded 2 interceptions and 2 recoveries, playing a crucial role in the overall defense. Furthermore, he attempted 38 passes, successfully completing 32, indicating stability in buildup play.

The soccer statistics company 'Footmob' awarded Kim Min-jae a rating of 7.6, acknowledging his performance.

The German media 'TZ' also praised Kim Min-jae. This outlet typically assigns player ratings between 1 and 6, with scores closer to 1 being higher. Kim Min-jae received a near-perfect score of 2. The outlet noted, "He aggressively moved up at the optimal time or performed backup duties, perfectly blocking the opponent's counterattacks."

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