Manuel Neuer's heroic display and Harry Kane's crucial strike secured Bayern München a vital 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu in a captivating UEFA Champions League encounter.
The stage was set for another classic chapter in the fierce rivalry between two European titans on April 7, 2026. Real Madrid, with their formidable home record, welcomed a Bayern side showing strong form, promising a high-octane affair in Madrid.
The first half saw both teams exchanging blows, though Bayern began to assert more control as the minutes ticked by. Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni received the game's first yellow card in the 36th minute for a mistimed challenge, adding to the tension.
Bayern München then broke the deadlock just four minutes later. L. Diaz, clinical in front of goal, tucked away a well-worked chance in the 41st minute, assisted by Serge Gnabry, silencing the home crowd.
The German champions wasted no time extending their lead right after the restart. Harry Kane drilled home a second goal for Bayern in the 46th minute, capitalising on a precise pass from Michael Olise, leaving Real Madrid stunned.
Trailing by two goals at home, Real Madrid needed a significant shift in tempo and strategy. Manager Carlo Ancelotti would have demanded a response to prevent the tie from slipping away completely.
Real Madrid introduced Dean Huijsen and Toni Pitarch in the 62nd minute, replacing Eder Militao and Jude Bellingham respectively. Bayern responded in the 69th minute, bringing on Jamal Musiala for Serge Gnabry and Alphonso Davies for Konrad Laimer.
The hosts found a glimmer of hope in the 74th minute. Kylian Mbappé, seizing an opportunity, fired a powerful shot past Manuel Neuer. Trent Alexander-Arnold provided the assist, rekindling Madrid's chances.
Despite Mbappé's effort, Real Madrid struggled to find an equalizer. Bayern's defense, marshalled by the imperious Neuer, held firm under increasing pressure. Several Bayern players, including Jonathan Tah, L. Diaz, Neuer, and Musiala, received yellow cards in the closing stages as they defended their lead.
Statistics painted a clear picture of the match's intensity. Both teams registered 20 total shots, but Bayern had a higher Expected Goals (xG) of 3.0 compared to Real Madrid's 1.85, indicating the quality of their chances. Manuel Neuer was the standout performer, making an incredible 9 saves to preserve Bayern's advantage.
This 2-1 victory hands Bayern München a crucial away advantage heading into the return leg. Real Madrid now face an uphill battle to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League dreams alive, with Bayern proving their mettle at the iconic Bernabéu.
