Real Madrid host Bayern Munich in a blockbuster Champions League quarter-final first leg, with both sides making key selection decisions ahead of kick-off.
The headline team news sees Harry Kane return to Bayern’s starting lineup, while Jude Bellingham begins on the bench for the Spanish giants.
Kane returns for Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich have been boosted by the return of their star striker Harry Kane, who starts after recovering from an ankle injury.
The England captain missed recent matches but is fit to lead the line, adding significant firepower to Vincent Kompany’s side.
Bayern have made several changes, including the inclusion of Dayot Upamecano in defence and Michael Olise in attack, as they look to continue their strong season.
Bellingham eased back for Real Madrid
Real Madrid have opted to name Jude Bellingham among the substitutes as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The midfielder has recently returned to action but is being managed carefully after missing several matches.
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa has instead handed a start to young midfielder Thiago Pitarch, while key players Federico Valverde and Vinicius Junior return to the lineup.
Confirmed lineups
Real Madrid XI:
Lunin; Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Thiago, Tchouameni; Guler, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr
Bayern Munich XI:
Neuer; Upamecano, Tah, Kimmich, Laimer; Pavlovic, Gnabry, Olise; Diaz, Kane, Stanisic
High-stakes encounter
Real Madrid come into the match under pressure after a recent La Liga defeat left them trailing Barcelona, while Bayern arrive full of confidence following a dramatic comeback win in the Bundesliga.
With a place in the semi-finals at stake—where either PSG or Liverpool await—this first leg at the Bernabéu could prove decisive.
Match outlook
The clash brings together two of Europe’s most successful clubs, promising a high-intensity encounter filled with quality and tactical battles.
All eyes will be on Kane’s return and whether Real Madrid’s decision to bench Bellingham will pay off on a crucial Champions League night.
