Munich's Bayern defender Bastian Schweinsteiger admitted that the early expulsion of visitor Shakhtar's player Aleksandr Kucher had a significant impact on the impressive 7-0 victory against Donetsk.
The Germans defeated their opponents and advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals.
The referee's decision entered the tournament records as the fastest red card received.
"The opponent's expulsion and the penalty kick were decisive. 11 against 11, of course, would have been completely different game.
But we played well, properly distributing the ball," said the defender.
His teammate Holger Badstuber echoed him.
"It was a tough match, despite the big difference. The result of the first match 0-0 was dangerous, but our attitude was excellent. We scored the first, the second... and didn't stop."
