Last year's loss will inspire us: Schweinsteiger

Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has insisted that the last year’s Champions league final defeat to Chelsea will inspire his team to cross the final hurdle this time around at Wembley.

Bayern lost out on penaties after Schweinsteiger and Ivica Olic both missed their spot kicks.

Schweinsteiger said: “The defeat by Chelsea motivates me very much. Personally, losing the final has motivated me more so we can do it this season. I think you can see that with a lot of other players, too.”

Having started off his career as a wide player, Schweinsteiger was moved to centre midfield by then manager Louis Van Gaal, to accommodate wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery. He has revelled in the role as holding midfielder and has become a mainstay for both club and country.

Bayern Munich have been ruthless in their run up to the final this year. They have had a fantastic season in the Bundesliga resulting in a record number of points, goals scored and goal difference — plus a 25-point gap ahead of 2nd-place Borussia Dortmund. And the 7-0 aggregate demolition of European powerhouse Barcelona has proved that the Bavarians are a force to reckon with.

Schweinsteiger, 28, added, “If you compare it to the other two finals all players are available and can play. We have a better squad than last season and you can see that. We never had a season like this in the Bundesliga. The way we played in all three competitions so far proves it.”

But Champions League final opponents Borussia Dortmund, have had the better of their German rivals in recent years. In the last three season, Bayern have won only once against the Borussians.

Schweinsteiger said, “We know we are seen as the favourites. But Dortmund in the last two years have won the championship and cup and they are a very good team — otherwise they wouldn’t be in the final.

“It will be a tight match and a lot can happen in one game. But we’re focused and will be in tip-top shape when the final kicks off. We want to win over 90 or 94 minutes and that’s what we are concentrating on. We have a plan and I’m quite optimistic.”

Source: TheSun