Conte: Juventus are underdogs for Bayern clash

15-Mar-2013 10:15:00 PM

The Bianconeri coach believes the showdown between the current league leaders in Italy and Germany will be a terrific contest and insists die Roten will have the advantage

Juventus coach Antonio Conte claims Bayern Munich have the upper hand heading into their Champions League quarter-final clash.

The four-time European Cup winners were last year's finalists but lost out to Chelsea on penalties, while this season, they have a comfortable lead at the top of the Bundesliga.

Conte believes with their experience and their ability to take their foot off the pedal domestically, Jupp Heynckes' men must be considered the favourites for this encounter.

“We were aware that the quarter-finals would present us with a challenging fixture. After Chelsea we’re now playing last year’s second finalists Bayern," the 43-year-old told the official Juventus club site.

“They’re one of the most consistent sides on a European level and will have the advantage of their great experience accumulated over the years. They’ll also be able to take their minds off the league, given their 20-point lead at the top."

Juventus haven not won the Champions League since 1996 and, while he is happy to be back in the latter stages of Europe's premier club competition, Conte says their dream of winning the tournament is a constant motivation.

He added: “The game will certainly be a stimulating affair and we’ll experience it with maximum calmness, concentration and joy.

"We’re chasing a dream and want to enjoy this experience all the way until the end. Last year we watched the Champions League on our sofas at home. This year we’re back playing a key role.”