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Sanches is the new Matthaeus: Kovac

Bayern Munich coach Niko Kovac believes the German champions have unearthed the next Lothar Matthaeus as Renato Sanches continues to resurrect his career with a stunning display at former club Benfica.

The 21-year-old sealed Bayern's 2-0 win at Benfica yesterday morning (Singapore time) as the Bavarian giants won their opening Group E encounter in the Champions League.

After Robert Lewandowski gave Bayern an early lead, Sanches finished a move he started after a powerful burst through midfield, by tapping home a cross in the 54th minute.

His goal capped an outstanding display and completes Sanches' resurrection after two torrid seasons since joining Bayern as an 18-year-old from Benfica in the summer of 2016 for 35 million euros (S$56m).

"It's so special for me, I've played for Benfica for 10 years, it's where I learnt to play football and has a special place in my heart, I'm very happy," he beamed.

So masterful was Sanches' midfield performance at the Estadio da Luz that he was treated to a standing ovation by the home crowd and Bayern coach Kovac was reminded of Bayern and Germany legend Matthaeus.

"Renato has an exceptionally good technique, very good speed and a great body," said Kovac of the Euro 2016 winner with Portugal.

"It's true that people fly off him left and right - just like they used to do with Lothar Matthaeus.

"I'm delighted for Renato - I said yesterday that he was excellent in pre-season and it wouldn't be long before he plays. I wanted him to score two, but he only managed one," he added with a grin. - AFP

GROUP E'S OTHER MATCH

Ajax Amsterdam 3 AEK Athens 0

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