Ahead of Tuesday's UEFA Champions League playoff second leg against Celtic, Bayern Munich's Thomas Müller took on the role of a defense attorney.

The Bavarians faced widespread criticism for their ultra-defensive approach in a goalless draw against Bayer Leverkusen, but Muller defended the team's performance as a masterclass in box defending.

"Call it what you want-masterly or not-it's eight points, and on Tuesday, we have the chance to advance to the next round of the Champions League," Muller said. "Honestly, we don't care about the rest."

Harry Kane (front) of Bayern Munich scores a penalty kick during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Bayern Munich and SV Werder Bremen in Munich, Germany, Feb. 7, 2025. (Photo by Philippe Ruiz/Xinhua)

While Leverkusen's attacking onslaught included several shots against the bar, Bayern coach Vincent Kompany kept a broader perspective.

Hard work and pragmatism are essential in football, according to Kompany, who appeared to see the match as an important test ahead of Bayern's Champions League campaign. A win over Celtic could set up battles with powerhouses such as Leverkusen or Atletico Madrid in the last 16.

Kompany praised his squad's mentality, saying they executed his tactical plan effectively. "We learn from games like this. The team did what was required-blocking crosses, intercepting passes, and shutting down shots," he said.

The former Belgian international also referenced the energy-draining first leg at Celtic Park, which Bayern won 2-1, as the club eyes the Champions League final in Munich on May 30. The chance to play for the trophy at home has seemingly taken precedence over winning the domestic league title.

Kompany dismissed any notion that he was leading a team without direction. Looking ahead to the Celtic match, he pointed to Bayern's nearly 100 goals this season as proof of their attacking capabilities, even if they had to embrace defensive discipline in Leverkusen.

Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer echoed the sentiment, saying, "We've done a good job defending."

Muller, who has spent his career as a prolific goal scorer, appeared unfazed by the team's pragmatic shift. "Sometimes, cleaning up is inevitable," he said, likening the work to tasks at his wife's horse stable.

His message was clear: after doing the dirty work, Bayern must be ready to deliver a more dynamic performance against Celtic.

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