Xavi demands improvement from Barcelona after Bayern defeat

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Xavi demands improvement from Barcelona after Bayern defeat

Barcelona manager Xavi bemoaned his side's lack of ruthlessness in front of goal after their 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday night.

An absorbing encounter went into half time goalless but two strikes in four second-half minutes from Lucas Hernandez and Leroy Sane saw Bayern claim all three points and go top of Group C.

Barça did create opportunities to score, though striker Robert Lewandowski had an off night in front of goal against his old side while Pedri hit the woodwork when the visitors were already 2-0 down.

“We were better than Bayern in many aspects," Xavi said. "We were better physically and we dominated the first half. I’m angry because it was a day to win. It’s a learning experience, but it’s hard. We didn’t score despite having seven clear chances. You have to score them. I’m pissed off but proud.

“If we equalised, we could say that we were better, but this is about winning. The first goal was from a corner and the second from not stopping counter-attacks. We have to work on that. They’re a complete team, but we’re at the beginning of a project. We have to improve these aspects.

“It’s also about effectiveness. You get in front of the goalkeeper and you have to score. The first half was excellent, we had them in their half, we dominated them and we won duels. We deserved to win.

“To learn from our mistakes. When the situation is bad, you learn. You can’t go 1-0 down from a corner like that. They shouldn’t be able to go inside on a counter-attack. We have to learn. We’re leaving with a 2-0 scoreline, which is not what we saw on the pitch.”