Wed Nov 06 20:25:37 UTC 2024: ## Bayern Munich Aims for Champions League Comeback Against Benfica
**MUNICH, Germany (AP) -** Bayern Munich’s new coach, Vincent Kompany, is focused on a Champions League victory over Benfica on Wednesday, despite a difficult start to the season. The Bavarians, currently in 23rd place in the new competition format, are looking to bounce back after losing two of their three matches.
While the new league-style format, which replaces the traditional group stage, may raise strategic questions, Kompany insists that his team’s focus remains on winning each individual game. “We have to win against Benfica,” he stated in a press conference on Tuesday. “I don’t want to spend too much time thinking about what could happen in January.”
The new format features 36 teams playing eight matches each, with the top eight qualifying directly for the next round. Teams ranked 9th to 24th will participate in a two-legged playoff for the remaining knockout stage slots.
Despite the possibility of a playoff path, Kompany emphasizes that the team’s primary objective is to secure a top-eight finish. “We just want to win again at home,” he said, highlighting their confidence in securing a victory against Benfica, who have won two out of their three Champions League matches.
The Belgian coach, who is in his first season with Bayern, believes a consistent winning streak is necessary to achieve their goals. “We have to win around six (of eight) games to reach the top eight,” he stated. “You have to win three games and that should be enough for the playoffs.”
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