Bayern Munich Aims for Top-Eight Finish in Champions League

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands (Reuters) — Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany emphasized the importance of Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Feyenoord, stating that two wins in their final two matches are crucial to secure a top-eight finish and advance to the next round. The Bavarians, currently leading the Bundesliga, have recorded four wins and two losses in the competition’s new league phase, which replaced the traditional group stage this season.

“You cannot differentiate between small and big games,” Kompany said during a press conference on Tuesday. “That is why this game tomorrow is for us of the highest priority.” He added, “I had a lot of fun with this new format. No criticism of the new format, but I don’t look at the table. We know with six wins you are in the top eight. Three wins and you are in the playoff phase.”

Bayern Munich currently sit in 12th place with 12 points. The top eight teams will advance directly to the Round of 16, while the next 16 will enter a playoff phase. Kompany remains focused on securing six wins, stating, “All the teams have a different program. My aim is to win six games.”

The team’s squad is bolstered by the return of several players from injury and illness, including Jamal Musiala, who has made substitute appearances in the past two matches. “We will see tomorrow if he will start,” Kompany said. “Today it was important that we saw the squad filling up. Not all of the players have the same fitness level… but we have a team with a lot of experience.”

Bayern Munich’s performance in the Champions League will be closely watched as they aim to maintain their strong form in both domestic and European competitions.