Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich: Champions League – team news, start, lineups
Madrid host Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich for the first leg of their blockbuster Champions League quarterfinal tie.

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are set to face off in a thrilling Champions League quarterfinal clash, with the first leg taking place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. This matchup promises to be a tactical showdown between two of Europe's most decorated teams, each eager to secure a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg in Munich.
Real Madrid, the defending champions of the UEFA Champions League, will be looking to continue their quest for a record-extending 15th title. Under the management of Carlo Ancelotti, the Spanish giants have been in impressive form domestically, leading La Liga with a comfortable margin. Their recent victory over Atlético Madrid in El Derbi Madrileño further solidified their title aspirations. Ancelotti will be keen to replicate the success of his previous stint at the club, where he guided Real Madrid to back-to-back Champions League titles in 2014 and 2015.
On the other hand, Bayern Munich, the reigning Bundesliga champions, are looking to make a statement in Europe after a disappointing domestic campaign. The Bavarian side, managed by Julian Nagelsmann, has been inconsistent in the Bundesliga, trailing Borussia Dortmund by 11 points. However, in European competitions, Bayern has shown flashes of their trademark dominance, securing a comfortable 7-1 aggregate victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16. The German side will be aiming to replicate their 2020 Champions League-winning campaign, which saw them defeat Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
The stage is set for a tactical battle between two of the most respected managers in European football. Ancelotti's Real Madrid is known for its possession-based game and defensive solidity, while Nagelsmann's Bayern Munich is renowned for its high-pressing style and rapid transition. Both managers will be keen to exploit their opponents' weaknesses, with Real Madrid looking to contain Bayern's attacking prowess, and Bayern aiming to disrupt Real Madrid's midfield dominance.
The lineups for both teams are expected to feature their key players. Real Madrid's starting lineup is likely to include the likes of Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Eder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and Vinicius Jr. in attack. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, will field a formidable team with Manuel Neuer in goal, Niklas Süle, Dayot Upamecano, Alphonso Davies, and Kingsley Coman on the wings. The midfield battle will be intense, with Real Madrid's Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić facing off against Bayern's Joshua Kimmich and Marcel Sabitzer.
The first leg of this quarterfinal tie will be closely watched by football fans around the world. The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, known for its electric atmosphere, will provide the perfect backdrop for this high-stakes encounter. Both teams will be under immense pressure to secure a favorable result, with the winner of this two-legged tie advancing to the semi-finals.
In conclusion, the upcoming Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Champions League quarterfinal is shaping up as one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the season. With both teams boasting a rich history in European football and a wealth of talent, the stage is set for a dramatic and unforgettable clash. The first leg in Madrid will undoubtedly set the tone for the remainder of the competition, with the winner of this blockbuster tie looking to build on their advantage in the return leg in Munich.









