Football
9y

Shakhtar boss Mircea Lucescu frustrated by Bayern's 20 fouls

Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu suggested Bayern Munich took a cynical approach to their goalless draw on Tuesday, saying rampant fouling kept his team in check.

The hosts managed just one shot on target but Bayern were whistled for 20 fouls and issued five yellow cards, including two to Xabi Alonso, who was dismissed in the 65th minute.

Lucescu said: "Sometimes we tried to play on the offensive but when we did that, Bayern's players fouled us.''

Besides his frustration with the full-contact play, Lucescu said his players accomplished their goal of staying in reach for an all-too-play-for second leg in Munich.

"I'm satisfied with our performance and the result," he said. "We had our last competitive game two and a half months ago and we looked fine tonight. We still have a chance.

"Unfortunately, we were not able to play our game even when Xabi Alonso was sent off. We couldn't gain enough possession and made a few mistakes.

"We are far from our best form, of course. This is a problem for us but we have time to change it.

"Bayern have their style and it's very important that we were able to close down their attackers. It was a first competitive game for us this year.

"Bayern have lots of experienced players while we have many young ones.

"The difference is so great and it's amazing that our players managed to stand firm against such quality opponents."

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