Matthijs de Ligt describes his contribution to the goal as Bayern Munich knocked Lazio out of the Champions League and admits the Thomas Tuchel situation is ‘unusual.’
The former Bianconeri defender was decisive to help overturn the 1-0 first leg defeat in this Round of 16 tie, as his ferocious volley on a corner was redirected past Ivan Provedel from six yards by Thomas Muller.
Harry Kane scored the other two goals for a 3-0 result on the night, 3-1 on aggregate.
“Obviously, it was very important for us, for our confidence and motivation. We played very well today, in my view,” De Ligt told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are going through a difficult period, we must stick together. This was the first step to go forward and we hope to build on it. Obviously, I was injured at the start and was unable to help the team, but I’ve played I think the last 10 games, I feel good and am happy to give my contribution.”
Tuchel is saved for the moment, but Bayern Munich have already confirmed the coach will be dismissed at the end of the season, so how are the players dealing with this odd limbo?
“It is a situation that doesn’t usually happen, it’s rather unusual, but we are Bayern, we are at a club that has won everything. We played with hunger, the ability to suffer under pressure, and I think that is what we’ve been lacking recently.”
De Ligt also spoke to Sport Mediaset and discussed his contribution to the goal.
“We were strong on the ball, we had patience, I hit the volley pretty well and I’m happy Thomas was there to score. We got a clean sheet too, which is always good for a defender.”
Lazio had started quite well and had the opportunity to take the lead with that Ciro Immobile free header.
“They wanted to score, but opening the scoring and above all the second goal I think was really important for us. That allowed more spaces to open up for us and at the end of the day 3-0 is a good result.”
Former Juventus defender De Ligt had worked with Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri in Turin and is still keeping a close eye on Serie A.
“Juve are doing really well, they are young and Allegri has a good squad. Inter are incredible this season, but I hope Juve can continue that growth process.”