Guardiola urges Bayern to pick up pace in CL semis return leg

After tasting a defeat in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola has called on his side to pick up pace in next week's return leg if they want to keep alive their title hopes.

Saul Niguez scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute as Atletico Madrid edged past Bayern 1-0 to take a slender advantage ahead of the second leg at the Allianz Arena.

Reflecting on the match, Guardiola admitted that he was happy with the performance as his side were able to create chances to score, the Mirror reported.

The Spanish manager, however, said that his side failed to perform well defensively and, therefore, urged Bayern to play smart and with patience in the upcoming match.

Guardiola, who is looking forward to clinch the European title before leaving Bayern at the end of this season, had earlier signed a three-year deal to replace Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City.