Champions League
Road to Kyiv: Preview Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich 2018
Madrid, Spain – The city of Madrid is buzzing ahead of tonight’s decisive second leg Champions League semifinal match between Real and Bayern. Almost a week ago in Munich right back Joshua Kimmich put Bayern up 1-0 in the early goings with a shot that blasted by Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The game went back and forth before Marcelo hit a marvelous one-time volley into the bottom right corner of the Bavarian’s net just before halftime to square the proceedings.
The second half was largely in control by the home team with Franck Ribery dominating the left flank. Bayern pumped balls into the box but were uncharacteristically toothless. However, star striker and potential Real Madrid target Robert Lewandowski epitomizing this with a open header that he was unable to convert. Also, in the 56th minute emerging talent Marco Asensio scored with a sweet chip over goalkeeper Sven Ulriech. Ulriech is filling in for the injured Manuel Neuer. By the time the full-time whistle blew Bayern had amassed more shots, corners, and had the lions share of the possession. Still the Bavarians saw themselves down 2-1 to Real.
Kickoff for the second leg is in the Santiago Bernabeu and starts at 20:45 CET, 02:45pm EST, 11:45am Pacific. Both teams will be feeling nervy about this one, with the stakes being a Champions League final in Kyiv. Real Madrid need just a draw to advance and Bayern need to score at least 2 goals to advance.
What to Expect
Left back David Alaba will likely be returning for today’s game. His participation will give Bayern more of a threat on the left side. An injury to Ajren Robben meant the Bavarians were one dimensional, with their attacks being funneled to the right channel. James Rodriquez will be starting in his first return since his summer exit from the Spanish capital. From the Real perspective Lucas Vazquez or Nacho will have to replace right back Dani Carvajal. Expect this match to have goals in it and a masterclass performance from Cristiano Ronaldo will be expected after his muted first leg.
Prediction: 2-2 Real Madrid (Real Advances)
