Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has said that Wednesday's match against Atletico Madrid has nothing to do with revenge for the defeat and exit in last season's Champions League semi-final, pointing out it is a different football game.
"No, we're not thinking about that. It's a different game. It's a group-stage game so will be less emotional than a semi-final," the 25-year-old Spaniard said, according to his club's official website on Monday.
Alcantara said that facing Atletico last season made Bayern aware of the Spanish team's strengths and weaknesses, reports Efe.
"They defend better than any other team in the world. We have a lot of chances. We know precisely what we have to do there," he added about the strength of the Spanish club, which has kept 16 clean sheets in their last 23 home Champions League matches
The midfielder also praised the work of Bayern's Italian chief coach Carlo Ancelotti saying he gives confidence to the players.
Following three consecutive defeats in Spain, FC Bayern will want to put an end to that run on Wednesday with at least a point in Madrid.
More From This Section
"It's important for us to win the away games, or at least take home as many points as possible," said Thiago.
--IANS
pur/bg