Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are poised to face off in a highly anticipated matchup, often referred to as the European classic, with the ultimate prize being a coveted spot in the final at Wembley Stadium. The stage is set for an epic showdown at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium following a 2-2 draw in Bavaria, and with Real Madrid freshly crowned as La Liga champions last weekend, the team is eager to capitalize on the festive momentum and deliver another spectacular European evening.
Current form and team readiness
Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid made light work of Cádiz, cruising to a 3-0 victory with a lineup brimming with reserve players. This strategic decision paid off handsomely as it coincided with Barcelona's unexpected slip-up at Montilivi, which handed Real the league title. Ancelotti's foresight to rest key players underscores the tactical acumen he brings, especially with the Champions League's finely balanced nature where every detail counts. This approach ensures that the team is in prime condition to tackle the challenges that Bayern Munich will undoubtedly pose.
Conversely, Bayern Munich experienced a setback in the Bundesliga, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Stuttgart. With the Bundesliga title out of reach, Bayern's rotated squad failed to match the intensity needed to overcome Stuttgart, who sits third in the German league. Despite fielding a second-string team, Bayern's performance was notably lackluster, highlighted by Harry Kane's lone goal from the penalty spot.
Historical context and previous encounters
This upcoming clash marks the fifth instance since 2012 that these two powerhouses will meet in the Champions League knockout stages, with four of those matches seeing Real Madrid host the second leg. Historically, Bayern has only managed to eliminate Real once during this period, back in 2012, a series famously remembered for Sergio Ramos's missed penalty. In recent years, Madrid has dominated these encounters, setting a precedent that Bayern will be keen to challenge.
Bayern’s injury concerns
As the match approaches, Bayern Munich's readiness is compromised by potential injury setbacks. Raphael Guerreiro, a key player for Bayern, had to leave the pitch after just 17 minutes during a Bundesliga match due to an ankle injury. His substitution for Leon Goretzka was a significant moment, and with the severity of his injury still unclear, it casts doubt on his availability for the critical match at the Bernabéu. This injury adds to a long list that has plagued Bayern throughout the season, affecting their performance and depth.
Bellingham’s Influence
Jude Bellingham, in his first season with Real Madrid, has swiftly become an integral part of the team’s core, forming a formidable duo with Vinicius. His contribution to the league campaign has been outstanding, netting 18 goals and providing four assists. Bellingham's impact extends beyond his statistics; his dynamic performances in crucial matches have been vital in securing Real Madrid’s 36th league title. Having already received accolades such as the Kopa Trophy and the Laureus Award, Bellingham is now focused on conquering the Champions League, a task that will test his mettle against Bayern, a team he has yet to defeat in his previous encounters.
This detailed backdrop sets the scene for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the European stage.
Press conference of Dani Carvajal and Carlo Ancelotti
Carlo Ancelotti and Dani Carvajal held a press conference ahead of Real Madrid's return leg in the Champions League semi-finals against Bayern Munich. Ancelotti reflected on the historic rivalry between Real Madrid and Bayern, acknowledging their similarities as clubs with rich histories and tremendous success. "As clubs, they are alike. They both boast a great history and considerable achievements. I believe mutual respect is due, especially as the opponent performed very well and even better than us in the first leg. There's a lot of excitement because it could turn into another magical night for us, but there's no room for overconfidence, only an awareness of the challenges ahead," Ancelotti noted, tempering expectations after Real Madrid's recent La Liga victory following their win against Cádiz CF and FC Barcelona's loss to Girona.
Regarding goalkeeping duties for the upcoming match, Ancelotti confirmed a change: "Lunin will play tomorrow unless I change my mind tonight. Yes, Lunin will start. The plan for a player returning from a significant injury doesn't alter due to one match. Thibaut played because he was in good form, and now he must take his time to return to his best. Our approach doesn't shift just because of one game."
Ancelotti expressed his preference for a high-pressure, fast-paced game: "We benefit more from a game that's intense, with pace... Reflecting on the first leg, we could have done much better defensively. We need an intense match," he emphasized.
He also confirmed that the league title will indeed be celebrated: "On Saturday, we were happy to win the match and then LaLiga. We had to manage our joy to prepare for this game. Now, LaLiga is on hold, and on Thursday we'll think about how to celebrate. Of course, we're going to celebrate it," he remarked.
Sitting beside Ancelotti was Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid's captain, who acknowledged the subdued excitement not only from winning the title but also from the chance to advance to another Champions League final. "There's euphoria because we're having a great year. We're very excited about the European Cup. In the locker room, we know it. People on the streets congratulate us and give us a lot of encouragement to dream about that Fifteenth," Carvajal stated, referring to the prospect of winning a 15th European Cup.
Carvajal praised Ancelotti and his staff for their role in the club's successes, particularly during a year of significant changes. "I think both the manager and his staff are deserving of the successes this year. With departures like those of Karim, Marco... we've countered with some very good arrivals, then long-term injuries, and look, the data is there. We are two matches away from winning the Champions League. He's kept us alert and everyone has contributed. That's what counts to achieve our goals," he emphasized.
Lastly, regarding the future of players like Kroos, Modric, Nacho, or Lucas, who might be nearing the end of their Champions League journeys at Bernabéu, Carvajal noted, "It's hard to know what will happen with each one. My time will come, as I still have a contract. We must enjoy every game. Hopefully not, but it might be someone's last Champions League game at the Bernabéu. Hopefully, it will end in a victory for Madrid," he concluded.
Furthermore, it was announced that experienced Polish referee Szymon Marciniak has been appointed by UEFA to officiate this match. Marciniak, 43, is among the world's most seasoned referees and was in charge of the last Champions League final between Inter Milan and Manchester City, as well as the recent World Cup final in Qatar 2022 between Argentina and France. The last time he refereed a match involving Real Madrid was in last season's semi-final against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium, where Real Madrid suffered a 4-0 defeat and was eliminated from the competition.