FC Bayern played their way into the semi-finals of the Champions League with spectacular performances against Real Madrid – but from Toni Kroos‘ point of view, there is still one decisive lever that the Munich team need to turn
The 2014 world champion, who has won the premier class six times himself, issued a clear warning to the German record champions ahead of the clash with Paris Saint-Germain
„I think Bayern will have to defend a little better in the semi-final than they did against Real,“ Kroos explained on the sidelines of the Laureus Awards in Madrid
The ex-professional is particularly critical of Munich’s high-risk style of play, saying that they gave their opponents too much space against Real – something that PSG could punish much more efficiently
„They defended very riskily in both games, which Real could have punished even more in the second leg,“ said Kroos
Offensively top – defensively vulnerable
There is no question that Bayern are currently one of the most dangerous teams in Europe, with players such as Harry Kane, Luis Díaz and Michael Olise providing the team with enormous attacking power
However, according to Kroos, it is precisely this offensive self-image that comes with a certain risk – especially against top teams at the highest level
Against Real, Munich got into dicey situations on a number of occasions, even trailing 3-2 at one point in the second leg and only having to fight their way back in the closing stages
Paris Saint-Germain now await an opponent that is at least on a par offensively, with players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué bringing pace, creativity and finishing power
It is therefore clear to Kroos that small mistakes could make the difference against the defending champions
„50:50 game“ at the highest level
Despite his criticism, the 36-year-old does not believe Bayern are at a disadvantage. On the contrary: for him, the duel is completely open. „If they adapt a little, Bayern have a good chance. For me, it’s a 50:50 story,“ explained Kroos
This confirms the impression of many experts who already see the semi-final between Bayern and PSG as an early final.