Records
In the first leg, Real Madrid, playing at home, did not have the upper hand, but Benzema's goal allowed the "Galacticos" to defeat Bayern 1-0. This result has left Bayern in a passive position. Returning to their home turf tomorrow morning, the "New Universe" team must keep a clean sheet against Real Madrid if possible. After all, with away goals being so precious, if Real Madrid scores one goal at the Allianz Arena, Bayern would need to score more than three to advance.
Of course, regardless of whether it is Real Madrid or the defending champion Bayern standing at the Estádio da Luz on May 25th, it is destined to be a new record. In the past three seasons of the Champions League, Real Madrid has been eliminated in the semi-finals, regrettably missing out on the ultimate showdown. If Real Madrid, having already gained the advantage, can eliminate Bayern and advance to the final, they will avoid repeating the regrets of the past three seasons. For the defending champion Bayern, the prerequisite to becoming the first team to successfully defend their title since the tournament's restructuring is to first get past Real Madrid.
"Winning the Champions League in Lisbon is a dream of mine, but I cannot think about that yet because there is still a semi-final waiting for us. I dream of going to Lisbon for the final, and I believe we can succeed." Cristiano Ronaldo admitted in an interview before the match that he dreams of the team advancing to the Lisbon final, a desire even stronger than that for the Brazil World Cup.
All-out Attack
The second leg between Real Madrid and Bayern is no less exciting than next month's Champions League final. Both teams possess numerous top-tier stars and are eager to showcase their best form in this match.
Looking at the 20-man squad announced by Real Madrid, offense remains Ancelotti's focus. Benzema and Pepe, who have recovered from injuries, are included in the squad, as is Gareth Bale, who missed the league match. "The 4-3-3 formation allows us to play an attacking game. We will utilize the flanks as much as possible and give Cristiano Ronaldo and Bale as much space as possible." Ancelotti, who just secured the Copa del Rey title, admitted that this championship is far from enough: "We still have to strive for other titles, whether it is the league or the Champions League."
For Bayern, who are in a passive position regarding advancement but possess home-field advantage, the second leg must also maximize the efficiency of their offense and counter-attacks to increase their chances of a comeback. Of course, in last weekend's 5-2 comeback victory over Werder Bremen in the league, Bayern already demonstrated super-strong attacking power, but Bayern's two conceded goals are also worth noting. I believe Guardiola will not ignore this loophole.
In addition, UEFA has officially announced the referee for this match: the Portuguese official Pedro Proença, who officiated the 2012 Champions League final where Bayern narrowly lost to Chelsea on penalties. Interestingly, Proença has also officiated three other Bayern matches: the 1-1 draw against Chelsea in the May 2012 Champions League final, the 2-3 home loss to Inter Milan in March 2011, and the 0-2 home loss to Bordeaux in November 2009.
