FC Bayern record a 0-0 draw with an impressive team performance at Anfield in the first leg of the Round of 16 tie on Tuesday night. The stadium is not only famous for its great atmosphere but also the strong Liverpool attack. But Munich were well organised and gave little away at the back. Niko Kovac's team thereby earned respect in the world of football as the international press review reveals.
Press reviews
England
Mirror: “For once, Jürgen Klopp’s heavy metal football was silenced. We have become used to Liverpool blowing teams away at Anfield on big European nights just as they did on the march to last season’s final. But Bayern Munich were too savvy, too streetwise and experienced to fall into the same trap as they frustrated Liverpool at Anfield.”
Independent: “Tense and tactical contest harks back to European days of old”
The Telegraph: “It lacked the usual edge and hostility in this arena on such occasions. (...) Bayern were too wise, too experienced to fall into the traps set by those who have recently arrived here with backs stiffened, ridiculing the power of the stadium, only to depart with pride and ambitions destroyed.”
The Sun: “Bayern blunt Liverpool to leave Klopp’s men facing uphill task in Munich. They will need some fire in their bellies when they travel to Munich for the second leg. To beat Bayern, or at least go through on away goals, is an almighty ask in European competition. (...) Liverpool could not get into their stride, with Bayern breaking up the rhythm and the momentum of the fabled front three (Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané and Roberto Firmino) .“
Liverpool Echo: “Liverpool’s journey into the knockout stages of the Champions League got under way with an instantly forgettable 90 minutes against Bayern Munich.”
Daily Mail: “Mané and Matip miss great chances, Liverpool frustrated by Bayern Munich. The clash is evenly balanced.”
Italy
Gazzetta dello Sport: “Liverpool play below their normal level and Bayern benefit. Pride, readiness to make sacrifices and passion make the difference. The best player is Javi Martinez who battles and dominates.”
Corriere della Sera: “FC Bayern return to Klopp’s lair and earn a 0-0 draw, which is not a bad result at all.”
Austria
Kurier: “Bayern Munich cannot be unhappy with the 0-0 draw at Liverpool. David Alaba and Co. defused the “red threat” in Champions League Round of 16 on Tuesday and take an advantage into the second leg on 13 March. Bayern were undaunted by the electric atmosphere at Anfield, were on the front foot in the first minute and certainly made an impression on the opponents.”
Switzerland
Blick: “One thing quickly became clear : (…) If ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone” scares some – it doesn’t affect Bayern.”
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