There is no need to go deep in to history to emphasize the greatness of both Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
Both clubs’ relentlessness and great form have after all not gone unnoticed in recent times. The Germans have reached two finals between 2010 and 2012, whereas the Blaugrana have been crowned champions of Europe twice in 2009 and 2011, respectively.Bayern were humbled by Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan in the Champions League final at the Bernabeu back in 2010. Their efforts at the Allianz Arena in the 2011/12 final against Chelsea also appeared to be slightly less than enough, as they narrowly lost to the Blues on penalties.
This year, Bayern have their eyes set on yet another final. But considering the hunger of their Spanish challengers, there is a need for Bayern to up their game.
Yes, Barcelona’s important Champions League battles in the knockout stage so far this season have shown us that they are a little more vulnerable than in previous years.
They have come close to exiting the competition against AC Milan and PSG and they will have to be wary of Bayern Munich’s prowess.
We probably all witnessed the brave victory the Bundesliga giants achieved against Real Madrid in the semi-finals last season.
Indeed, the fact that Bayern have not lost against a Spanish side since 2009 simply demonstrates their efficiency against La Liga teams.
That defeat came at the hands of Barcelona at the Camp Nou. The Germans – then led by Coach Jürgen Klinsmann – were comprehensively beaten 4-0. Going through such a nightmare this time is certainly out of question for the Bavarians.
Considering Bayern’s satisfying form at the moment, they would want to fight with everything they have and resist Barca’s entrapping mental power.
Interestingly, the winner of this clash over the two legs will face either Real Madrid or Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on May 25 at the Wembley Stadium in London.
We could be in for a classic all-Spanish final or an all-German final.
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