With the domestic league coming to an end last weekend, all eyes on European football are on the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for a Champions League semi-final second leg clash – Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich. The first leg drew 2-2 at the Allianz Arena and the second leg will determine who will progress to the Champions League final and get one step closer to the title.
The contest has been dubbed the "European Derby", not only because of the illustrious history of both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but also because they have met the most times in the Champions League, with a staggering 26 times. Of those, 20 of them appeared in the knockout stages and eight of them met in the semi-finals, all of which are all-time records. The last time the two teams met in the Champions League was back in the 2017-18 season, and the renewal of the line-ups of both sides made this game more uncertain and suspenseful.
In the first leg, Real Madrid visited the Allianz Arena and drew 2-2 with Bayern. A mistake by South Korean defender Kim Min-jae was the focus when he fouled in the box and sent a penalty that cost Bayern Munich the chance to end their eight-game winless run against Real Madrid. According to statistics, Bayern's last victory over Real Madrid was back in 2012, 12 years ago. Although Bayern have a slight advantage in terms of all-time record, a long winless run has also put them under pressure.
In the second leg, Real Madrid will host Bayern. Real Madrid are unbeaten in 29 consecutive home games in all competitions, and this strong home advantage makes them favourites to qualify for the final. It only takes a 1-0 win for Real Madrid to knock out Bayern Munich and return to the Champions League final. At the same time, Real Madrid also have the opportunity to receive a prize of 15.5 million euros, and more accolades and bonuses await them.
This season, Real Madrid is aiming for the 15th Champions League title, while Bayern Munich is aiming for a seventh Champions League title. This showdown will be a contest of honor and dreams, and who will have the last laugh, let's wait and see!