Bayern Munich held possession, and Real Madrid were content with limiting their attacks to counter-moves led by Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. Manuel Neuer held strong and kept his team in the game. All the German side needed was to score one, and the Colombian star did just that.

A great combination between Harry Kane, Serge Gnabry, and Luis Diaz unlocked Real Madrid’s defensive system, and the “Guajiro” made no mistake one-on-one with the goalkeeper.

Real Madrid argued for offside

As soon as the ball went in the net, Real Madrid players such as Lunin and Alvaro Carreras raised their hands in a clear, universal sign, calling for offside. However, the assistant referee didn’t raise his flag—and for good reason.

Alvaro Carreras—who argued for an offside—was caught well behind the rest of Real Madrid’s line of defense. As a result, every Bayern Munich player was onside, including Diaz, who scored his fifth goal of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.

Diaz: 3rd Colombian to score against Real Madrid in UCL

As reported by renowned Spanish sports statistician MisterChip (@2010MisterChip on X), Diaz has become the third Colombian native to score against the 15-time UEFA Champions League winners in Europe’s biggest club competition. Diaz joins James Rodriguez and Luis Muriel, who scored against Real Madrid with Bayern Munich in 2018 and with Atalanta in 2021, respectively.

Alvaro Arbeloa’s team will have to face the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal first leg without their No. 1 goalkeeper. Even though there was internal hope he could make it back in time, the staff ultimately decided against it.

The injury dates back to the previous round, when he was forced off after feeling discomfort in his thigh. Medical tests later confirmed a muscle issue that required a recovery period measured in weeks, effectively ruling him out of this tie. Jude Bellingham is not starting against Bayern today either.

How and when did Thibaut Courtois get injured?

Thibaut Courtois suffered his injury during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Manchester City in mid-March 2026. He experienced discomfort in his right thigh and was unable to continue, being subbed off for Lunin.

Subsequent medical examinations confirmed a muscle injury in the rectus femoris of his right quadriceps, a setback that immediately raised concerns given the timing in the European calendar. The injury was particularly unfortunate as it came just as the team was entering the decisive stages of the season.

How long is Thibaut Courtois’ recovery timeline?

Thibaut Courtois is expected to be sidelined for around six weeks. Initial reports from reliable outlets indicated a recovery window of approximately four to six weeks, depending on how the muscle heals.

Some projections have even suggested the absence could extend slightly longer, closer to six to eight weeks, especially if the club takes a cautious approach to avoid any relapse. This type of muscle injury typically requires careful rehabilitation.

When will Thibaut Courtois return to play?

Thibaut Courtois is likely to return sometime in late April or early May 2026, depending on his recovery progress. Based on the initial six-week timeline from mid-March, his comeback would align with the final stretch of the season.

However, there is still uncertainty surrounding his exact return date. Real Madrid’s medical staff is expected to prioritize a full recovery rather than rushing him back for a specific match, especially with crucial fixtures.

How has Thibaut Courtois performed this season?

Thibaut Courtois has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in Europe this season. In LaLiga alone, he recorded 11 clean sheets in around 27 appearances, conceding just over 20 goals and maintaining a save percentage close to 70–71%.

Those numbers underline his reliability: Madrid conceded less than a goal per game with him on the pitch, and he consistently provided stability behind the defense. His shot-stopping remained sharp, with more than 50 saves registered in league play, reinforcing his role as a key piece in the team’s title push.

In the UEFA Champions League, his impact was just as important. He featured regularly and added multiple clean sheets while maintaining a high save percentage, often stepping up in high-pressure moments against elite opposition.

This campaign has followed the same pattern seen throughout his career: dependable performances, big saves in decisive matches and a clear influence on Madrid’s defensive structure. That level of consistency is exactly why his absence against Bayern Munich feels so significant.

The main storyline for Madrid is Bellingham’s absence from the starting lineup. The English midfielder recently recovered from a semitendinosus muscle injury in his left leg, a setback that kept him out for several weeks and affected his match rhythm. Although he has already returned to action, the coaching staff, led by Alvaro Arbeloa, chose not to start him as they continue managing his workload carefully.

Bellingham’s absence from the initial lineup adds to a list of significant early-season challenges for Real Madrid. Thibaut Courtois is not playing against Bayern today either, as the goalkeeper continues his recovery from injury.

The German club arrive in strong form and aim to take a positive result back to Germany in this Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash, while Madrid look to control the first leg despite missing key players.

Real Madrid confirmed lineup vs Bayern Munich

Real Madrid will start with a group built around stability, ball progression, and pace in attack: Lunin; Trent, Rudiger, Huijsen, A. Carreras; Valverde, Thiago, Tchouameni; Arda Guler, Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr.

Bayern Munich confirmed lineup vs Real Madrid

Bayern Munich line up with a group built around experience, physicality, and vertical attacking play: Neuer, Upamecano, Tah, Kimmich, Stanisic; Laimer, Pavlovic; Gnabry, Olise, Luis Diaz; Kane.

Following an explosive start by Bayern, the German giants initially struggled to break down a resilient Real Madrid defense. However, a brilliant collective effort allowed Luis Diaz to find the back of the net just before halftime, sending the visitors into the locker room with the lead.

Bayern struck again immediately after the restart, with Harry Kane doubling the advantage early in the second half. Just as it seemed the Germans would run away with it, Kylian Mbappe pulled one back to keep Real Madrid within striking distance.

Despite a relentless late push for an equalizer, the hosts fell short. Real Madrid now head to the Allianz Arena facing a deficit, needing a comeback in Munich to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

The opening leg doesn’t decide everything, but it rarely leaves things unchanged. A win, a draw or a loss each carries different consequences, influencing how both sides approach the return fixture.

For two clubs built on Champions League success, there’s little margin for error. Real Madrid will look to impose their rhythm, while Bayern aim to seize control early. So, how much will today’s result really matter?

What happens if Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich today?

If Real Madrid win today, they will carry an aggregate lead into the second leg, putting them in control of the tie—but not through yet. In the quarter-finals, progression is determined by the combined score across both matches.

A first-leg victory simply creates an advantage rather than deciding the outcome. What changes is the dynamic: Madrid would head into the return leg knowing they can advance with either another win, a draw or even a narrow loss depending on the margin. Fortunately, there will be many options to watch the first leg between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the USA.

What happens if Real Madrid and Bayern Munich tie today?

If Real Madrid and Bayern Munich draw today, the tie remains completely level, with everything to be decided in the second leg. Unlike previous eras, there’s no hidden advantage tied to scoring away from home.

UEFA removed the away goals rule, meaning all draws are effectively equal heading into the return match. That changes how teams approach the first leg. Instead of calculating “valuable away goals”, both sides focus purely on winning the second leg.

If the aggregate score is still tied after both matches, the tie goes beyond regulation: 30 minutes of extra time are played, followed by penalties if needed. From a competitive standpoint, a draw resets the equation.

What happens if Real Madrid lose to Bayern Munich today?

If Real Madrid lose today, they will go into the second leg behind on aggregate and must overturn the deficit to advance. Falling behind in a two-legged tie shifts the pressure immediately.

Alvaro Arbeloa’s team would need to win the second leg by enough goals to either level the aggregate score or surpass Bayern. Without the away goals rule, the task is straightforward: score more goals across both matches.

The margin of defeat is what truly defines the challenge ahead. A one-goal loss keeps the tie finely balanced, while a heavier defeat forces Madrid into a more aggressive approach in the return leg.

[Watch Real Madrid vs Bayern online in the US on DAZN]

It’s a blockbuster UEFA Champions League quarterfinal matchup as Real Madrid meet Bayern Munich with a semifinal spot at stake. Powered by Kylian Mbappe, Madrid arrive after eliminating Manchester City.

On the other side, there will be another European giant, Bayern Munich, who convincingly beat Atalanta in the round of 16, setting the stage for a high-risk first leg that could define the entire tie. A win, tie or loss for Real Madrid or Bayern could have huge implications for the second leg.

When will the Real Madrid vs Bayern match be played?

Real Madrid face Bayern this Tuesday, April 7, in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. The game is set to kick off at 3:00 PM (ET). Follow our liveblog of Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich and don’t miss a single thing!

Real Madrid vs Bayern: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:00 PM
CT: 2:00 PM
MT: 1:00 PM
PT: 12:00 PM

How to watch Real Madrid vs Bayern in the USA

Get ready for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Bayern. Catch all the action live on DAZN. Other options: Paramount+, DirecTV Stream, Univision, TUDN and ViX.

The matchup resumes with a decisive context after Bayern’s dominant 6-1 win in the first leg, a result that has already tilted the series heavily in their favor. That opening-leg performance was one of the most complete displays of the season.

The German giants built a five-goal aggregate cushion, effectively removing most of the pressure heading into the return leg and allowing them to approach the game with a significant margin for error.

What happens if Bayern Munich beat Atalanta today?

If Bayern Munich win, they advance to the quarterfinals and will face Real Madrid. With a 6-1 aggregate lead from the first leg, Vincent Kompany‘s team has already put one foot in the next round.

A victory in the second leg would simply confirm Bayern’s progression in emphatic fashion, extending an already decisive margin and eliminating any remaining doubt about the outcome of the tie.

The scale of Bayern’s advantage means the focus is less on qualification and more on maintaining rhythm and avoiding complacency. Even a routine performance would be enough to secure passage.

For Atalanta, the challenge is clear: they must produce something extraordinary to change the narrative. But if Bayern win again, the tie closes with total control from start to finish.

What happens if Bayern Munich and Atalanta tie?

If Bayern Munich and Atalanta draw, Bayern still move on to the quarterfinals. A draw changes nothing in practical terms. Their five-goal cushion on aggregate remains intact, meaning the German side qualify regardless of the scoreline.

In this scenario, the match would likely reflect a more measured approach. Bayern would not need to chase the game, and Raffaele Palladino‘s team would be forced to take risks without the guarantee of reward.

What happens if Bayern Munich lose to Atalanta today?

If Bayern Munich lose, they still qualify unless the defeat is by five goals or more. Because of the result in the first leg, they can absorb a loss and still advance comfortably in most cases.

Atalanta would need to win by five goals to force extra time, or by six to eliminate them outright—an unlikely scenario at this level of competition. Even a victory may not be enough, but it would at least shift the narrative of the tie.

This creates a rare situation in a Champions League knockout match, where one team can afford mistakes without immediate consequences. However, Bayern will still aim to avoid any drop in intensity, especially against a side known for its attacking approach.

[Watch Bayern vs Atalanta online in the US on Fubo]

The Round of 16 clash in the UEFA Champions League quickly became one of the most one-sided ties of the round. Bayern Munich were heavy favorites against Atalanta, but few expected the Italians to collapse the way they did, suffering a stunning 6–1 defeat at home in the first leg.

With a massive aggregate lead, Bayern now return home aiming to officially punch their ticket to the quarterfinals, while Atalanta look to salvage some pride and end the matchup on a better note.

When will the Bayern vs Atalanta match be played?

Bayern will host Atalanta this Wednesday, March 18, in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. The game is set to kick off at 4:00 PM (ET).

Bayern vs Atalanta: Time by State in the USA

ET: 4:00 PM
CT: 3:00 PM
MT: 2:00 PM
PT: 1:00 PM

How to watch Bayern vs Atalanta in the USA

Get ready for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League clash between Bayern and Atalanta. Catch all the action live on Fubo. Other options: Paramount+, DirecTV Stream, CBS Sports Network and ViX.

Kane completed training ahead of the match, but Bayern’s staff determined he was not yet ready to start a high‑intensity knockout fixture. Nicolas Jackson leads the attack once again after his strong showing in Bundesliga play.

Before the match, manager Vincent Kompany explained the decision. “Harry Kane got through training very well today,” he said. “We still have to make a decision about what is best for tomorrow.”

Bayern Munich’s lineup vs Atalanta

Bayern introduce significant rotation for the first leg in Bergamo against Atalanta, with Kompany making six changes from their 4–1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach last weekend. The adjustments aim to manage fitness across a congested schedule while covering for key injuries.

Bayern Munich starting XI: Jonas Urbig; Josip Stanisic, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Konrad Laimer; Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlovic; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Luis Diaz; Nicolas Jackson.

[Watch Atalanta vs Bayern online in the US on Fubo]

Bayern Munich will face a challenge as Harry Kane isn’t starting against Atalanta today, though the striker could come off the bench in the second half. Standing in their way is Atalanta, who arrive with momentum after a convincing knockout of Borussia Dortmund.

The first leg won’t decide who advances, but it could be very telling for the second leg. The Italian side is hosting the first match, with the Germans playing hosts in the rematch.

When will the Atalanta vs Bayern match be played?

Atalanta receive Bayern this Tuesday, March 10, in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. The game is set to kick off at 4:00 PM (ET).

Atalanta vs Bayern: Time by State in the USA

ET: 4:00 PM
CT: 3:00 PM
MT: 2:00 PM
PT: 1:00 PM

How to watch Atalanta vs Bayern in the USA

Get ready for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League clash between Atalanta and Bayern. Catch all the action live on Fubo. Other options: Paramount+, DirecTV Stream, CBS Sports Network and ViX.

Borussia Dortmund were stronger than their rival in the opening half, taking the initiative and creating the majority of the scoring opportunities. Their persistence was rewarded in the 26th minute when Nico Schlotterbeck headed home from a corner, allowing the hosts to head into the halftime break with a well-deserved lead.

However, the second half belonged to the visitors. Harry Kane emerged when his side needed him most, netting a brace to turn the tide in favor of the Bavarians. Not to be outdone, the Black and Yellows fought back, with defender Daniel Svensson leveling the score with just ten minutes remaining in regulation.

Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, Joshua Kimmich played the hero, surfacing in the final minutes to strike the winner for Bayern Munich. With this victory, the league leaders have extended their cushion over Dortmund to 11 points, taking a massive step toward securing another Bundesliga title.