Real Madrid, often heralded as the “Kings of Europe” back home, stands just three matches away from securing an unprecedented 15th Champions League title. Under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, who is driven by a desire for redemption, Madrid has overcome last season’s humiliating semi-final loss to Manchester City and is now poised to overtake Barcelona for the La Liga title.
The team’s ability to conquer any challenge is evident, even during a period of transition marked by Jude Bellingham’s rise in elite football.
The last encounter between Madrid and Bayern Munich in the Champions League featured iconic players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Karim Benzema. From that match, only Dani Carvajal, Dani Ceballos, Luka Modric, and Toni Kroos remain, with the current squad under Ancelotti aiming to etch their own legacy.
This squad is no stranger to success, having claimed the Champions League title in the 2021/22 season with a decisive goal from Vinicius Junior against Liverpool.
Bayern Munich, facing the prospect of a first season without silverware in over a decade, is under immense pressure to eliminate Madrid. Thomas Tuchel, Bayern’s manager, previously led Chelsea to Champions League victory in 2020/21, but this match might prove too formidable a challenge for him.
Prediction: Expect Real Madrid to advance to the final.