Vincent Kompany spoke about the balance between satisfaction and restraint after Bayern Munich’s 2–1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu in the first leg of their Champions League tie. Speaking in the post-match press conference, the Bayern coach made it clear that while the result was significant, the job is far from finished.
Kompany began by emphasizing the importance of winning in one of Europe’s most difficult stadiums, while pushing back against any suggestion that Bayern had been
fortunate:
“I don’t think we let Real Madrid get away with it. I’m happy with the result. It’s a win, and any win at the Bernabéu is important. Now we play the next match at home and we have an advantage.”
Despite the advantage heading into the second leg in Munich, Kompany repeatedly stressed caution.
“We respect Real Madrid’s quality because they are incredibly dangerous, but we have been too. Our team always has the right to dream of victories because we are playing very well. We are going to mentally reset and try to win again in Munich. I know this tie is not over yet.”
The Bayern manager returned to the theme of mutual respect, framing the contest as one between two elite sides who both believe in their identity and chances:
“I think we’ve been very respectful of Real Madrid; we value the type of team they are. But that’s also what we are. We’re going to try to win again. Winning against the best team in the competition is a big challenge, but we know they’re a great team.
“I’m happy with the result, but I know this isn’t over yet. We’re not going to get carried away. If my boys win next week, then I’ll feel that sense of joy.”
