Real Madrid and Bayern Munich gear up for their 28th encounter in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg, with both vying for a spot in the tournament’s final on June 1, 2024. The first leg ended in a 2-2 draw, setting the stage for an intense battle.
Real Madrid’s Strategy:
Real Madrid welcomes back Dani Carvajal from suspension, with coach Carlo Ancelotti rotating his lineup for their recent victory over Cadiz. Key players rested include Jude Bellingham, Antonio Rudiger, Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, and Vinicius Jr. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made his return after several months, but Andriy Lunin is expected to start.
Real Madrid aims to extend their record Champions League title count to 15 by overcoming Bayern Munich in the semifinals. With a 2-2 draw in the first leg, Real Madrid maintains a seven-match unbeaten streak against Bayern, showcasing their dominance in recent encounters.
Bayern Munich’s Approach:
Bayern Munich faces uncertainties with Raphael Guerreiro and Eric Dier’s injuries, while Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sane were rested in their previous game. The club hopes Matthijs de Ligt will recover in time. The absence of key players adds pressure as they aim to overturn the first-leg result.
Reasons to Support Real Madrid:
Real Madrid boasts an impressive unbeaten run, with Vinicius Junior emerging as a key player in the first leg. The Brazilian forward’s brace salvaged a draw for Real Madrid, highlighting his vital role in the team’s success. Real Madrid has a history of triumphing over Bayern in knockout stages, instilling confidence in their pursuit of victory.
Reasons to Back Bayern Munich:
Bayern Munich relies on the prolific Harry Kane, who leads the Champions League scoring charts with eight goals. Kane’s consistent goal-scoring form presents a significant threat to Real Madrid’s defense. Additionally, Leroy Sane’s return to scoring form adds depth to Bayern’s attacking prowess.
Head-to-Head Stats:
Real Madrid holds a slight edge over Bayern Munich, with 12 wins compared to Bayern’s 11 in their previous encounters. With five draws, the rivalry remains closely contested.
Predicted Lineup:
Bayern: Neuer (c) – Kimmich, De Ligt, Dier, Mazraoui – Laimer, Goretzka – Sané, Müller, Musiala – Kane
Out: Boey (thigh), Buchmann (thigh), Coman (groin), Sarr (knee), Guerreiro (ligament tear)
Doubtful: Upamecano (fitness)
Coach: Thomas Tuchel
Real Madrid: Lunin – Carvajal, Rüdiger, Nacho (c), Mendy – Valverde, Camavinga, Kroos – Bellingham – Rodrygo, Vinícius
Out: Alaba (knee)
Doubtful: Tchouaméni (knock)
Coach: Carlo Ancelotti
Match Details:
Date: Wednesday, May 8
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Santiago Bernabeu — Madrid
