Beckenbauer repeats Pep criticism

Franz Beckenbauer has again criticised Bayern Munich’s style of play under Pep Guardiola.

Bayern were beaten last night by Real Madrid in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final despite having the overwhelming majority of possession.

But Mundo Deportivo reports that Beckenbauer said on German television that possession is pointless when you can’t break down your opponent – echoing a comment made only a few months earlier.

“Bayern played as expected – with a lot of possession but no bite,” he said.

“We can’t win with possession if the opponent creates chances. We can be happy that Madrid only scored once.

“They created more danger than Bayern with the most possession. Bayern’s play wasn’t as dynamic as usual and they didn’t press as normal.

“It might have surprised Madrid, who were able to change the pace as they wanted.

“Madrid have played one of the best games I have ever seen. They were very good tactically and exceeded Bayern with a couple of moments.

“Madrid were superior, better, had more spark, and could economise their effort in the League so they were better physically.

“The win is deserved for Madrid but we still have the second-leg. It will be difficult but not impossible.”