Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have a history that evokes strong memories for fans of both clubs. The two sides have faced each other in nine two-legged ties in the knockout stages of European competition.
Olympiastadion: A Night of German Dominance
Before facing AC Milan, there was the Olympiastadion. In the 1986/87 European Cup semi-final, Bayern Munich defeated Real Madrid 4-1. That Bayern side included Pfaff, Augenthaler, Brehme, Matthäus and Søren Lerby.
The match is remembered for Juanito stamping on Matthäus’s head. Bayern, coached by Udo Lattek, overwhelmed Real Madrid that night. Matthäus controlled the midfield, and Brehme provided depth. Hoeneß won every aerial ball.
Real Madrid’s frustration culminated in Juanito’s actions. Despite attempts to rally at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid only managed a 1-0 victory.
The Rise of White Dominance
Throughout the 1990s, the Bayern-Real Madrid fixture was absent, but it returned in the 2000s. In the nine two-legged knockout ties since then, Real Madrid has won six, while Bayern has won three.
Real Madrid secured victories in 2014, 2017, 2018 and 2024. Real Madrid seems to draw on its history, even during matches.
Ancelotti’s Unique Position
Carlo Ancelotti, once a player who scored against Real Madrid, is now the coach with the most trophies in Real Madrid’s history. Sacchi, who coached against Real Madrid, later became Real Madrid’s sporting director.
Real Madrid possesses something difficult to measure: memory. When the season is poor, and elimination looms, Real Madrid draws on its reserves. This generation, now only including Carvajal, has overcome challenges.