Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has revelled in delight after masterminding his side’s shock 7-0 aggregate UEFA Champions League semifinal triumph over Barcelona but insists the Catalans’ era of dominance isn’t over.
The Bavarians clinched a 3-0 second leg victory thanks to second-half strikes from Arjen Robben, Thomas Muller and a Gerard Pique own goal, having won the first leg in Munich 4-0.
Despite the heavy nature of the defeat, former Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid boss Heynckes downplayed any talk of Barca’s era being over.
“I know Spanish football very well, especially Barcelona. I know the way they like to play and their philosophy,” the 67-year-old said.
“My team understood our tactical approach very well and they executed it perfectly. Our organisation was superb and we got Robben in a one-on-one situation, which he loves. That first goal was obviously the decisive moment in the game.
“I wouldn’t say we witnessed the end of an era tonight. Barcelona were missing a lot of players and we put in a clever performance.”
He added: “There’s no denying Barcelona are a different team without Messi. Even so, I’m sure no one expected us to win 7-0 on aggregate.”