Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes says his side will travel to Madrid in confident mood for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final after coming from behind to beat Werder Bremen 2-1 yesterday. Although the result did not keep Bayern in the hunt for the Bundesliga title, which Borussia Dortmund sealed yesterday evening, it was nevertheless a good test of character for the Bavarians.
Heynckes fielded a weakened side with Wednesday's clash against Real in mind, but Franck Ribery sprang from the bench to score the winner in the last minute, earning particular praise from his coach. "It is not easy to play every three or four days and that is why I rotated my side," he said. "I am pleased with the engagement and the attitude of my team. The substitutions had a positive influence on the game.
"It was an important win for morale. We now travel to Madrid with confidence and optimism because we are always capable of scoring a goal away from home," Heynckes continued. "I am optimistic and so too are my players."
There is not so much optimism in Bremen, though, after their sixth defeat since the turn of the year left their hopes of qualifying for te UEFA Europa League next season hanging by a thread. And their coach Thomas Schaaf says he is sick of being asked about Europe. "I couldn't care less," he told Sky television.
"Always these ridiculous questions - we have lost a game today and the simple fact that we have not won means the situation is no better. You can save your questions about the Europa League, we are just thinking from game to game."