On Tuesday evening, Bayern Munich are set to host Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie. With a trip to the Spanish capital set to come for Der Rekordmeister, they will know that a positive first leg will be required if they are to reach the final at Wembley Stadium.
As well as this, there is the knowledge that an all-German Champions League final could await them with Borussia Dortmund in the other semi-final. Recently crowned French champions PSG stand in the way of Die Schwarzgelben, but having already faced Luis Enrique’s side this season, there is optimism that making the final is possible.
Knowing that Der Klassiker could once again be played out in London with the Champions League trophy on the line is becoming quite an exciting thought for both sides. Speaking to Prime Video prior to Bayern’s clash against Real, Manuel Neuer commented on whether he is looking forward to the opportunity of coming up against BvB in the final again:
“Of course, there aren’t many players from back then who are still playing, but Thomas and I can still remember how great that was. Now it’s time to throw everything into the balance to get back there.”
As well as this, Neuer mentioned that it is “very good for German football that two teams are in the semi-finals.” However, if Bayern and Dortmund are to reach the final, then the Bundesliga may be considered the best league in the world.
Regardless, both sides need to make it past the semi-finals first, and for Bayern, that means overcoming the might of Los Blancos. Having already eliminated the reigning European champions, Manchester City, Neuer remarked that his side understands the challenge ahead:
“Everyone knows Real Madrid. They are a great team, and the duels between Bayern and Real Madrid are more or less the greatest games you can get. The entire football world is happy.” You have to “be in top form in both games and give everything on the pitch to get to the final.”
Der Rekordmeister have already seen off the threat of Lazio and Arsenal, but Real are a different obstacle entirely. Champions League DNA is ingrained in the club, and Thomas Tuchel’s side will need to be at their best if they are to knock out the Spanish champions.
GGFN | Will Shopland
