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This is our UEFA Cup news section where we provide any news items that might have a significant effect on the matches being played - or sports betting in general.

UEFA Cup News :: Ottmar Hitzfeld : Zenit are our toughest test

Posted on 2008-04-24 by Gooner

Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld has warned his players Thursday night's UEFA Cup semi-final opponents Zenit St Petersburg can provide an even greater test than Getafe.

The Bavarian giants needed two late extra-time goals to secure an away-goals win over the Spanish outfit in the quarter-finals - easily their toughest round so far.

But Hitzfeld believes the Russian champions represent yet another step up in quality.

"St Petersburg are certainly the strongest opponents we will have met so far in the competition," Hitzfeld said. "They are technically a very strong team and we have got to really concentrate and not let them hit us on the counter-attack."

The emphasis has been very much on attack en route to the semi-finals, with Bayern having scored 32 goals in the competition so far.

Yet that tactic may be abandoned on Thursday night with Hitzfeld admitting his defenders will have to be on top of their game.

"For me it is always important that we play well and take all our chances and that begins with the defence," added Hitzfeld. "We have got to be very stable and let them have as few chances as possible. Then, maybe we can look to attack. A 1-0 or 2-0 would be a good result, but even then nothing would be decided."

The reason for Bayern's shift in emphasis away from attack is the suspension of their and the tournament's top goalscorer, Luca Toni.

With 10 goals in as many games, the Italian has made a huge contribution to Bayern reaching the last four, not least in the quarter-final stage when he grabbed the two late goals to send them through.

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Sourced From : SportingLife Website

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