The four semi-finalists have been decided and the matches are determined. In less than one week’s time we shall see the top two clubs from Spain and Germany, respectively, vie for a place at England’s historical Wembley Stadium and a chance to be crowned European Club Champion. German giant, Bayern Munich, will battle Spanish juggernaut, Barcelona. The other match sees free flowing Borussia Dortmund take to the stage with perennial cup contenders Real Madrid.
Barcelona and Munich last met in the 08/09 Champions league quarter-finals with the Catalans humbling the Bavarians 5-1 on aggregate. Bayern look to avenge their last European meeting with Barcelona and make it to a second successive final. Barcelona is after a third title in five years. The nine time European Champions, Madrid, are seeking pitch payback with Dortmund as they were considered fortunate to earn one point in the round robin against the 2012 German Cup holders. Borussia hunt for their first European Championship since 1997.
Is it merely a coincidence that FIFA’s, current ranked, one and two on the International scene and the four teams competing are from the same two Nations? Representatives of La Liga, the Bundesliga and their corresponding countries would likely tell us no. But, International fans and football protagonists alike would definitely have something to say otherwise. Regardless, these are two tantalizing matches and will, most certainly, make for great entertainment and offer exciting football.
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