Real Madrid will host Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 8 p.m. BST (3 p.m. ET, 5 a.m. AEST) in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal. Madrid finished second in their group, while Bayern topped theirs, setting up a clash between two of Europe’s elite sides.
Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised Bayern as one of Europe’s most in-form teams, stressing that defeating the best is essential to becoming champions. Bayern manager Vincent Kompany expressed respect for Real Madrid while highlighting the need for confidence heading into the match.
Both clubs bring a rich Champions League pedigree.
Real Madrid have won the tournament a record 15 times, including five of the last ten seasons, while Bayern Munich have claimed six European Cups, including a dominant campaign in 2020.
Their experience at the knockout stage could prove decisive in this high-stakes tie.
The two sides have met in three previous Champions League quarterfinals, with Real Madrid winning all three.
In the 2016–17 season, Madrid advanced after a 6–3 aggregate victory, featuring a commanding 4–2 home win. In 2017–18, they again progressed with a 4–3 aggregate, and in 2020–21, Madrid eliminated Bayern with a narrow 3–2 aggregate score.
Related News:
Real Madrid’s Vinicius wins Fifa Best men’s player of the year
Real Madrid Sack Xabi Alonso After SuperCopa Defeat
Ancelotti steps down as Madrid manager
Mbappe improving every game, Real Madrid coach Ancelotti says
These past results give Madrid confidence heading into this tie, though Bayern will be eager to overturn history.
Injuries will affect both squads. Real Madrid will be without goalkeeper Thibault Courtois and forward Rodrygo, with Ferland Mendy and Dani Ceballos doubtful.
Bayern Munich will miss Sven Ulreich, with Harry Kane a doubt.
Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane, leading the Champions League scoring charts with 13 and 10 goals respectively, are expected to play key roles.
Federico Valverde’s energy and versatility will be pivotal for Madrid, while Luis Díaz’s duel with Trent Alexander-Arnold could shape Bayern’s attacking threat.
Madrid have a strong knockout record, winning 12 of their last 14 Champions League ties. Bayern, however, have lost four of their last five quarterfinal ties but arrive on the back of a comeback Bundesliga win.
The match will be broadcast on HBO Max and Prime Video in the UK, Paramount+ in the U.S., SonyLiv in India, and Stan Sport in Australia. ESPN will also provide live coverage.
About the Author
