For the 28th time in their storied histories, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are set to clash in the Champions League.
This time, it’s the second leg of their semi-final showdown at the Bernabeu, slated for Wednesday evening. Last week’s encounter at the Allianz Arena ended in a pulsating 2-2 stalemate, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. The winner at the Bernabeu will face either Borussia Dortmund or Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
Real Madrid, no strangers to quelling Bavarian hopes in the Champions League, endured an early storm in the first leg but managed to deliver a significant blow with Vinicius Junior’s brace.
However, Bayern responded fiercely, with Leroy Sane and Harry Kane turning the tide in their favor. Yet, Vinicius’s second goal ensured the semi-final remains finely balanced.
Following their trip to Bavaria, Real Madrid’s second-string squad clinched a record-equalling La Liga title with a convincing 3-0 victory over Cadiz. Their focus now shifts to securing their 15th Champions League title, especially as they return to the Bernabeu, where they have been formidable.
On the other hand, Bayern Munich faces a more precarious situation. Their Bundesliga crown slipped away, and they’re yet to secure a top-three finish domestically.
Despite a recent surge in form, injuries have plagued their defensive line, leaving them vulnerable on the road. Bayern’s defensive woes extend to their dismal record against Real Madrid, having failed to keep a clean sheet in 16 encounters and never defeating Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the Champions League.
In terms of team news, Real Madrid welcomes back Thibaut Courtois and Dani Carvajal, while Bayern Munich grapples with injuries to key players like Raphael Guerreiro and Kingsley Coman.
As for the possible starting lineups, both teams are expected to field strong sides, with Real Madrid likely to feature Courtois, Carvajal, and Vinicius Junior, among others. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, could see the return of Eric Dier and Matthijs de Ligt, although Kingsley Coman remains sidelined.
In predicting the outcome, we anticipate a thrilling encounter with Real Madrid edging past Bayern Munich, given their formidable record at home and Bayern’s defensive vulnerabilities on the road. We foresee a 3-2 victory for Real Madrid, securing their place in the final.
