LAGOS, NIGERIA (VOICE OF NAIJA) Carlo Ancelotti has insisted Real Madrid will not take Bayern Munich lightly in their Champions League semifinal first leg clash.
Bayern have relinquished the Bundesliga title for the first time since 2012 with their disappointing campaign playing a part in the decision to part company with coach Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season.
Bayer Leverkusen ended the Bavarians’ 11-year Bundesliga reign by securing the league crown two weeks ago but Ancelotti said European pedigree matters and the six-times winners will have extra motivation to win the last trophy they can fight for.
Real Madrid are favourites to progress to the Champions League final at Wembley, but Ancelotti has warned his team against any complacency.
“We’re preparing to play a big team with lots of qualities,” Ancelotti told a news conference on Monday.
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“We are confident and have faith but we have respect for Bayern Munich. They haven’t played a fantastic season in the Bundesliga but they played very well in two matches against Arsenal. This shows the quality of this club.
“They are strong in transition, they can play in different ways and are very dangerous. We need to focus and take ourselves to the final, that’s our goal,” he said.
At his own news conference, Tuchel said Bayern would have “no chance” if the tie comes down to the experience of the two managers.
Ancelotti, 64, has won the Champions League four times and taken charge of more matches in the competition than any other coach, but the Italian was quick to brand his counterpart a “genius” when asked to assess Tuchel’s ability.
“It’s not up to us, the coaches.
“The match is up to the players. You give them the idea or the strategy and they have to be convinced of it but it’s all about the players and their behaviour on the pitch. Thomas Tuchel is a great coach, especially in terms of tactics. A genius. His teams are always well trained and I have a lot of respect for him,” Ancelotti said.
Real Madrid are favourites to add to their record 14 Champions League titles after knocking out holders Manchester City in the last round.
