The Santiago Bernabéu is all set to witness a phenomenal clash as Real Madrid hosts Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League 2026 quarter-final first leg on Tuesday, April 8, 2026. This “European Clásico” features two of the most successful clubs in history, with Alvaro Arbeloa’s Madrid side looking to carry their momentum from the 5-1 aggregate win over Manchester City into this fixture. With high-stakes tactical battles expected between Arbeloa and Vincent Kompany, both teams are navigating significant fitness concerns that could decide the outcome of this opening leg.
Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Match Details: Quarter Final 1st leg, UEFA Champions League 2025/26
| Match | Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich, UCL Quarter-final (1st Leg) |
| Date | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (April 8 in India) |
| Kick-off Time | 12:30 AM IST (April 8) / 9:00 PM CET (April 7) |
| Venue | Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid |
| Tournament | UEFA Champions League 2025–26 |
| Head Coach (RM) | Alvaro Arbeloa |
| Head Coach (BAY) | Vincent Kompany |
| Referee | Michael Oliver (England) |
| Broadcast (India) | Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV, JioStar |
Real Madrid Injury Updates Champions League: Kylian Mbappé And Jude Bellingham Return
The biggest boost for Real Madrid ahead of this UCL 2026 clash is the return of Kylian Mbappé to the starting eleven. After recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for several weeks, Mbappé is expected to lead the attack alongside Vinícius Júnior.
Furthermore, Jude Bellingham has also recovered from a hamstring issue and is likely to start in an advanced midfield role. However, the hosts are still missing key personnel, including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (thigh) and forward Rodrygo (knee), who are both ruled out. Andriy Lunin will continue to deputise in goal as Madrid seeks a crucial home victory.
Harry Kane Injury Update Bayern Munich: Star Striker Set To Feature
For Bayern Munich, all eyes have been on the fitness of Harry Kane. The star striker sustained an ankle injury during the international break, but the latest Harry Kane injury update confirms he participated in the final training session at the Bernabéu and is expected to start. Manager Vincent Kompany will rely heavily on Kane’s goalscoring prowess, supported by the creative talents of Michael Olise and Luis Díaz.
The Bavarians are relatively healthy compared to their opponents, though they will be without backup goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. Bayern’s high-pressing tactics will be tested against the elite transition play of the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Predicted Lineups And Tactical Preview
The tactical battle will likely centre on the midfield, where Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde must neutralise the influence of Joshua Kimmich. Real Madrid is expected to deploy a 4-4-2 formation to accommodate their returning stars, while Bayern Munich will likely stick to a 4-2-3-1 setup.
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Real Madrid Predicted XI: Andriy Lunin (GK); Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, Francisco García; Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler; Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior.
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Bayern Munich Predicted XI: Manuel Neuer (GK); Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Konrad Laimer; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Luis Díaz; Harry Kane.
Champions League Winner Prediction Today: Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich – Who Will Win Today?
This fixture remains one of the hardest to call in the UCL 2026 quarter-finals. Real Madrid holds a slight psychological edge due to their incredible “Champions League DNA” and home support, but Bayern Munich has been the most consistent side in the Bundesliga this season. Given the offensive firepower on both sides and the defensive absences for Madrid, a high-scoring thriller is expected. A 2-1 win for Real Madrid or a 2-2 draw seems the most authentic outcome for this first leg.
Champions League Winner Prediction, Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich: Real Madrid
