Bayern Munich’s 2-0 win at Schalke fired the Bavarians back to the top of the German league yesterday, while champions Borussia Dortmund suffered a second straight defeat as they lost 2-1 at Hanover.
Bayern are two points clear at the top of the table after six games and have now gone eight games without conceding a goal, thanks mainly to ex-Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
With Germany striker Mario Gomez out with a groin injury, new Bayern signing Nils Petersen took his chance and put his side ahead on 21 minutes after some good work from France wing Franck Ribery.
Bayern made sure of the win when Germany midfielder Thomas Mueller took advantage of some sloppy Schalke defending to score the second on 75 minutes.
As expected, ex-Schalke captain Neuer had a hostile reception on his first return to Gelsenkirchen with Munich since leaving the Royal Blues.
Dortmund’s poor start to the season continues as they were floored by two late goals in two minutes with Ivory Coast striker Didier Ya Konan netting the winner to seal Hanover’s victory.
Bundesliga
Hanover vs B. Dortmund 2-1; Schalke vs Bayern Munich 0-2.
Leading standings: B. Munich 15; W. Bremen, B. M’gladbach 13; Hoffenheim 12; Hanover 11.