Robert Lewandowski equalled Gerd Muller’s record of 40 Bundesliga goals in a single Bundesliga season as Bayern Munich were held to a 2-2 draw on Sunday.
With a ninth-consecutive league title already sealed, the focus for Bayern was all about Lewandowski’s pursuit of a notable milestone that was set back in the 1971-72 season.
Lewandowski had closed the gap to a one goal difference in their last match with a hat-trick against Borussia Monchengladbach last time out, helping Hansi Flick’s side celebrate being crowned champions in style with a 6-0 win at the Allianz Arena.
The Poland international matched the legendary Muller’s record with as he score from the penalty spot, thanks to a first-half penalty awarded following the involvement of the video assistant referee.
Lukas Kubler had pulled down Thomas Muller at a corner after receiving a recommendation to review the incident, allowing Bayern’s number nine to reach 40 from the spot.
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Lewandowski received a guard of honour from Bayern team-mates and staff next to the visiting dugout in the immediate aftermath, though he failed to take two more clear chances late in the game that would have seen him override the record.
Less than three minutes after conceding the opener, Freiburg capitalised on a set-piece situation to draw level. Vincenzo Grifo’s corner into the near post was met by Manuel Gulde, who beat Niklas Sule to the ball and flicked a header beyond Alexander Nubel who was handed a first league start as Manuel Neuer watched on from the bench.
However – after Mark Flekken had denied Lewandowski, who also scuffed another opportunity at to the goalkeeper – Freiburg captain Christian Gunter fired in a deserved equaliser to earn his side a point.
Lewandowski matches Muller’s goalscoring record. What’s next?
Lewandowski matches Muller goal scoring record and has one more game to add to his tally, Bayern rounding out their campaign – and also Flick’s tenure as head coach – at home to Augsburg. His 40 goals so far have included eight penalties, five headers and four converted with his left foot.
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In the long term, his target will be to chase down Muller and become the competition’s all-time leading scorer. Lewandowski – who turns 33 in August – is still some way shy of the club icon’s total of 365, though there is little sign of him losing his hunger for goals. Â