Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk criticized Bayern Munich for not playing to their full potential against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League, jeopardizing Galatasaray’s chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
Bayern, having already secured their place in the next round, played a lacklustre goalless draw against Copenhagen, allowing Galatasaray to remain in contention for qualification.
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Buruk believes that Bayern should have taken the match more seriously and secured a victory, which would have significantly improved Galatasaray’s chances.
“We were disappointed that they gave up points. They rotated for the first time and it didn’t look like they wanted to win,” Buruk said according to Bild.
“We want to win in Copenhagen and get our work done. I have high expectations of Bayern for the last game against Manchester.”
Buruk expressed frustration that Galatasaray had to face Bayern twice, on the third and fourth matchdays, when qualification was still at stake. He believes this was an unfair advantage for Bayern, who could afford to play less competitively against Copenhagen.
“We are the unfortunate team because we had to play against Bayern on the third and fourth matchdays,” he said recounting their recent 2-1 defeat at the Allianz Arena and their 3-1 loss in Istanbul,” he added.
Galatasaray’s hopes of advancing now hinge on their own performance against Copenhagen and a favorable outcome in the match between Bayern Munich and Manchester United.
If Galatasaray beat Copenhagen they will book a place in the next round of the Champions League. United meanwhile, have to beat Bayern and hope the other two teams in the group draw.
