Bayern Munich secured a crucial 2-1 away victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.
Goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane gave Bayern a deserved lead, while Kylian Mbappe pulled one back late on to keep the tie alive for the Spanish giants.
Vincent Kompany’s side dominated much of the encounter, especially in the first half, creating several chances but only finding the breakthrough in the 41st minute. Diaz finished calmly after a well-worked move involving Serge Gnabry and Kane.
Bayern doubled their advantage shortly after the restart when Kane curled a precise effort into the bottom corner, marking his 11th goal of the Champions League campaign. Despite their control, the visitors were unable to extend their lead further.
Real Madrid, managed by Alvaro Arbeloa, struggled to cope with Bayern’s intensity early on but improved in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 74th minute when Mbappe finished from close range after a well-delivered cross, giving the hosts hope ahead of the return leg.
Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer played a key role, making several important saves to deny Madrid’s attacking threats, including Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
Despite late pressure from Madrid, Bayern held on for the win, ending a nine-match winless run against the Spanish side. The German champions now take a narrow advantage back to Munich for the second leg.
What you should know
Bayern Munich defeated Real Madrid 2-1 at the Bernabeu in the Champions League quarter-final first leg.
Goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane secured the win, while Kylian Mbappe’s late strike keeps Real Madrid in contention ahead of the return leg in Germany.