Jupp Heynckes praised his Bayern Munich side’s ‘perfect’ execution of their game-plan that defeated Barcelona 3-0 this week.
The Bavarians will face League rivals Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League Final later this month thanks to a 7-0 aggregate win over Barca, confirmed by last night’s second leg 3-0 win at the Camp Nou.
“I think it was clear that my team entered this game extremely focused,” enthused Heynckes post-match.
“We played great right from the start. There's no denying Barcelona are a different team without Messi. Even so, I'm sure no one expected us to win 7-0 on aggregate.
“I know Spanish football very well, especially Barcelona. I know the way they like to play and their philosophy.
“My team understood our tactical approach very well and they executed it perfectly. Our organisation was superb and we got Robben in a one-on-one situation, which he loves.
“That first goal was obviously the decisive moment in the game.
“This team really pulls together. We get through outstanding work together, and we're tremendously hungry for success.
“Both games have shown we’re capable of football at a very high level. We're playing extremely high-speed football, we’re very well organised, we’re tactically smart, we close down the space, and our transitions are functioning perfectly this season.
“We're a real team, from the front to the back.”
Real Madrid also lost to German opposition in the other semi-final, leading to the assertion that the Bundesliga is becoming Europe’s dominant force.
“I wouldn't say we witnessed the end of an era tonight. Barcelona were missing a lot of players and we put in a clever performance.
“Dortmund deserve to be in the final as they are having a great season as well. Sure, it's a bit of a surprise that they reached the final.
“I obviously hope we can be successful at Wembley. We will now reflect on what we achieved tonight, enjoy the moment and then turn our attention to the Dortmund game at the weekend.”