A heavyweight European rivalry is set for another chapter as Bayern Munich host Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday night.
Vincent Kompany’s side carry a narrow advantage into the tie after securing a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu last week, with goals from Luis Díaz and Harry Kane overturning Real Madrid’s early momentum before Kylian Mbappé’s late strike kept the Spanish side firmly in the contest.
The result ended Bayern’s long winless run against Real Madrid and significantly shifted the tie in their favour, but history suggests the job is far from complete. The German champions have traditionally been strong in two-legged European ties after winning away first legs, though their past encounters with elite Spanish opposition have often proven tricky in knockout rounds.
Bayern arrive in strong domestic form following a dominant 5-0 win over St Pauli, further extending their lead at the top of the Bundesliga. Their home record in Europe also offers confidence, with the Bavarians winning all their Champions League matches at the Allianz Arena this season and losing just once in their last 28 home outings in the competition.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are under pressure following a turbulent stretch of results. Back-to-back setbacks in La Liga, combined with their first-leg defeat, have left their season teetering. A draw with Girona last time out added to frustrations at the Santiago Bernabéu, where supporters voiced their displeasure.
Despite that, Madrid remain a force in Europe. Their pedigree in Champions League quarterfinals is unmatched in recent history, particularly against German opposition, where they have consistently progressed in knockout ties. They also carry strong recent away form in Europe and have avoided defeat in their last visits to Munich.
Team news
Bayern Munich will be without Sven Ulreich and Lennart Karl due to injury concerns, but Harry Kane is expected to feature after being rested over the weekend. Kane has been in exceptional European form this season, continuing his strong scoring record in the competition.Serge Gnabry faces a late fitness test, while Vincent Kompany may rotate slightly in midfield, with Aleksandar Pavlović pushing for a start. The defensive unit is expected to include Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah, both rested in the weekend league fixture.
For Real Madrid, Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo remain sidelined. A major blow comes with Aurélien Tchouaméni suspended, forcing a reshuffle in midfield.
Kylian Mbappé is a slight doubt after picking up a facial knock against Girona, though he is still expected to start if fit. Vinícius Júnior will also be central to Madrid’s attacking threat, with additional options including Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz in support roles.
Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield selection will likely include Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham, with Eduardo Camavinga or a younger option stepping in to compensate for Tchouaméni’s absence.
Possible lineups
Bayern Munich:Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Stanisic; Kimmich, Pavlović; Olise, Gnabry, Díaz; Kane
Real Madrid:
Lunin; Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham; Güler; Mbappé, Vinícius Jr
Prediction
Arsenal 2-0 Sporting Lisbon
