Bayern Munich stalwart Phillip Lahm has told his side to continue to believes that they can progress in the Champions League, despite a 3-1 quarter-final first-leg loss away to FC Porto.
The Bavarians, now 5.00 to be crowned European champions, suffered a shock reverse in Portugal, falling 2-0 behind within ten minutes in the Estadio Dragao, before Thiago Alcantara pulled a goal back.
However, a second-half strike from Jackson Martinez has left Bayern with something of a mountain to climb in the second leg in the Allianz Arena next Tuesday, but Lahm has told the Bundesliga powerhouses not to give up hope.
“We could have lived with losing 2-1, whereas 3-1 is not good, but we still have every chance in the second leg,” Lahm told Sky.
“In the second leg we have to play our game. We must have plenty of possession, create chances and convert them. We got the away goal so it is definitely possible.
“We have to move on from here. Winning 2-0 or better at home is a possibility.”
Meanwhile, Porto head coach Julen Lopetegui has told his players to expect one of the biggest tests of their careers in Bavaria next week, as he prepares for a major Bayern onslaught.
He added: “The hardest part will be in Munich. We will need to produce a perfect performance in Germany next week to progress.”
Porto are aiming to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time in more than a decade, having last done so in 2004, when they went on to lift the trophy under the guidance of Jose Mourinho.
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