Bayern Munich turned in their worst Champions League display of the season against Sporting Lisbon but qualifying
for the last 16 ahead of schedule more than made up for the quality of the performance.
"No one thought we'd be through after four games when the draw was made," coach Felix Magath said after a 0-0 draw against
the Portuguese gave Bayern 10 points from four matches in Group B, which also features Inter Milan and Spartak Moscow.
"We have to be very pleased with that."
Bayern were missing several key players, including centre-back Lucio and the midfield trio of Mark van Bommel, Owen
Hargreaves and Bastian Schweinsteiger, but they still managed to extend their perfect defensive record in the group stage so
far.
Sporting coach Paulo Bento was satisfied with a result that kept his side's hopes of qualification alive. With two games to
play, they are in third place, a point behind Inter.
Image: Bayern Munich's goalkeeper Oliver Kahn leaves the pitch after the match.