Garcia: I can't wait to play Bayern

The Roma coach is looking forward to his side’s Champions League clash with the Bavarian giants, while Mattia Destro believes it will be a “wonderful” match

Roma coach Rudi Garcia and striker Mattia Destro both say they cannot wait to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Garcia’s side neat Chievo 3-0 on Saturday, scoring all of their goals in the opening 33 minutes, and the French coach immediately turned his attention to the upcoming Champions League after the win.

Roma sit second in Group A of the Champions League, two points behind Bayern, with Garcia’s men needing at least a draw against the Bavarians on Tuesday to ensure they stay ahead of third-placed Manchester City.

“Bayern are very strong and I really can’t wait to play this game, as the Stadio Olimpico atmosphere will be fantastic,” Garcia told Sky Sport Italia.

“I was one of those who knew Pep Guardiola hadn’t chosen an easy challenge at Bayern Munich. He has done and will continue to do very well there.

“I heard people say the coach isn’t what makes Barcelona play well but instead Guardiola is proving he makes his teams play well.”

Destro, who scored Roma’s opening goal in the fourth minute on Saturday, agreed it will be a fascinating contest.

Roma started their continental campaign with a 5-1 demolition of CSKA Moscow before claiming an impressive 1-1 draw at City, but they will be keen to prove themselves against quality opposition again after their 3-2 loss away to three-time defending champions Juventus earlier this month.

“It will be a wonderful match and we’ll be in front of our own fans, so we can’t wait,” the Italian striker said.

Destro gave Roma an early lead with a strong header from a corner before Adam Ljajic smashed in a second goal in the 25th minute.

Francesco Totti scored the home side’s third goal from the spot just after the half-hour mark and although Roma appeared to slow down in the second half, with the captain and Miralem Pjanic coming off with over 20 minutes left, Garcia insisted his team stayed in control.

“We didn’t rest but we did control the second half,” he said.

“We have injured players and scored three goals early on, so now we can concentrate on the Champions League.

“I trust my players 100 per cent and the quality was clear tonight. The team gave its response [to the Juventus loss] on the field, which is always the best answer.”

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