Heynckes: Bayern got off lightly against Arsenal
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Article summary
Jupp Heynckes's FC Bayern München escaped with a slap on the wrists despite losing 2-0 to Arsenal FC, with Arsène Wenger saying his side were "very close" to progressing.
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Jupp Heynckes, Bayern coach
We have to look at this game in a very critical manner. The early goal for Arsenal was obviously just what they were looking for. We had the better chances, but lacked clinical finishing and weren't as calm as we usually are.
We managed to get off with a slap on our wrists. We still haven't won anything. This was a timely reminder for us – that we have to continue working hard in order to achieve our goals.
We failed to put up a real fight against them in the first half. We improved in the second half and created chances to score, but overall we never had real control of this match and were never able to pass the ball in the calm and controlled manner we are used to.
This should be a reminder for us that it takes two games to qualify for the next round. We weren't as focused as we usually are. We weren't as compact or as aggressive as we have been in recent weeks.
It is a shame to go out, but the performance, clean sheet and defensive display were very good. We gave the ball away at times when we shouldn't have, but overall I was quite happy.
We will focus on the next game and try to finish the season well. It is difficult for anyone to go out of the Champions League, but we played one of the best teams in Europe. We have played well tonight, but the tie is over 180 minutes and that is what counts. I'm confident we'll qualify again next year. I have a good group of players and we will benefit from the experience.