Vincent Kompany urges focus as Bayern Munich face 'tricky' Pafos in Champions League

In the mixed zone on Monday evening, Kompany stressed that despite their stature, Bayern must respect a Pafos side that have yet to lose en route to Europe's premier competition. "It's a completely normal game for us, it's the Champions League. That always brings a special feeling, with big respect for the opponent," he said.

"They've already played seven matches and haven't lost once, we know what to expect. We have full confidence that we can get the three points, but respect is key."

Kompany likened the matchup to a FIFA Club World Cup tie, where unfamiliarity with the opposition means there's limited prior data to lean on. "You play against opponents you don't meet that often, where you have to search for everything from scratch. Emotions will play a big part tonight, they will keep this game alive."

He made clear that his priority is fielding a strong team and securing victory, not padding goal difference. "I've never gone into a game thinking we want to score four or five goals," Kompany remarked. "If we win 1–0, that is still a win. Resting doesn't always mean leaving players out completely, we have to manage it carefully over these next few games."

Bayern come into this fixture off the back of a convincing 4–0 demolition of Werder Bremen, in which Harry Kane netted twice and became the fastest player in a top-five European league to reach 100 goals for a single club, doing so in just 104 matches.

Tonight's clash offers an opportunity for Bayern to press ahead in their Champions League campaign. Kompany summed up his mindset: "Tonight will be about concentration as much as quality.

"We must respect Pafos, but also show our strength."