Sparkling Bayern beat Roma 2-0 to book last-16 spot

Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski, Franck Ribery and Mario Goetze (L-R) celebrate after Goetze scored a goal against AS Roma during their Champions League Group E second leg soccer match in Munich November 5, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

ROBBEN OUT

With in-form winger Arjen Robben, Roma's tormentor earlier this month ruled out of the game due to a stomach bug, coach Pep Guardiola opted to leave Thomas Mueller on the bench and named Ribery for only his second start of the season.

The Italians, with both Francesco Totti and top scorer Gervinho on the bench, were disciplined at the back, working extremely hard to keep the Germans well away from their box.

Bayern's Juan Bernat went close in the 17th minute but his shot was cleared at the last instance by Vassilis Torosidis and Lahm's shot was easily blocked by Lukasz Skorupski.

Roma's best chance fell to Radja Nainggolan, who broke clear but with only keeper Manuel Neuer scuppered his chance with a bad first touch.

But it all changed when Ribery beautifully turned in David Alaba's cutback in the 38th.

With Roma forced to come forward Bayern found space much more easily and came close with Alaba and Medhi Benatia early in the second half.

Germany international Goetze was left unmarked and killed off the game with an awkward volley in the 64th minute as Bayern extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches in all competitions.

Neuer made two spectacular saves to deny Gervinho and Nainggolan late in the game and keep his third clean sheet in four group games.