Juventus boss Antonio Conte says Bayern Munich are up there with Barcelona and Real Madrid after losing to the Germans 2-0 in their quarter-final first leg in Bavaria on Tuesday.
Goals from David Alaba and Thomas Muller settled the contest to give last season’s runners-up an ideal advantage ahead of the return leg in Turin. However it could have been more with Bayern dominating the contest.
“Bayern have great quality but also a great physical condition and a great fighting spirit,” Conte said.
“They are up there with Barcelona and Madrid in terms of quality yet they are also very angry after losing last season’s final at home on penalties. And they proved all their grit tonight.”
He added: “Bayern played a great game. We just came up against a great team tonight. I have to be honest and admit that we simply faced a better side.”
Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes said he was delighted with his side’s ability to control the Italian champions.
“At times we witnessed football of a very high standard. We always controlled the game,” Heynckes said.
“Considering we played against a team about to retain the Serie A title, we have seen an outstanding display by my side.”