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Reigning European Champions Bayern Munich will face off against a Real Madrid side on a quest to claim their 10th European crown. In the other semi-final, Chelsea take on Atletico Madrid with Courtois in goal, as confirmed by both UEFA and Chelsea. Here are the latest reactions from Twitter and the clubs involved.
First up, Bayern Munich winger Xherdan Shaqiri following the KISS principle.
Bayern Munich’s former coach, Ottmar Hitzfeld certainly seemed confident.
“Real Madrid CF aren’t as strong as they have been in recent years and FC Bayern München have always performed well against Real so in many ways it’s a good omen,” said Hitzfeld. “The most important thing will be grabbing a goal or two in the first leg in Madrid. Both teams boast talented frontlines, but Real are susceptible at the back. It’s a huge advantage for Bayern to play in Madrid first.”
Whilst Thomas Müller could hardly contain his excitement as he tweeted about the draw.
“Real Madrid! A great draw! I’m really looking forward to two exciting match with lots of world class players!”
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti unsurprisingly, has one eye on the fitness of his star man.
“We’re going to give it our all to win. I think [Cristiano] will recover soon. We’re not going to take any risks. If he’s not 100%, he won’t play the [Copa] final. I’m not sure if Cristiano will be able to play the Copa del Rey final on Wednesday. We’ll have to wait & see over the next few days.”
Whilst Bayern Munich legend Paul Breitner was certainly pleased with the semi-final draw.
“Chelsea FC and Club Atletico de Madrid’s priority would have been to defend so from that perspective Real Madrid CF were a more favorable draw. Now at least we have the chance to enjoy an open game” and also added “We are confident that we can become the first team to defend the Champions League title.”
But, some, like Fadugba here, are already looking into the future.
Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay clears the air on the whole Courtois issue.
“The loan was arranged back at the start of the season. It’s quite simple. Thibaut can play against Chelsea. That was never in doubt.”
Whilst the “Courtois” issue has been cleared, some just want to concentrate on the football.
Last word goes to Atletico Madrid’s Sporting Director José Luís Caminero, who is keen to enjoy his side’s day in the sun.
“We are really happy to be here. It’s such an even tie. Chelsea have a great squad. We must adjust ourselves… and continue with our spirit. We’ve got to compete, to fight and to be more competitive. We’ll try to make it to the final.”
Semi-Final draw:
Real Madrid vs Bayern MunichAtletico Madrid vs Chelsea
The first leg of the ties will be played on 22 & 23 April, with the second leg on 29 & 30 April with the winners playing in the final at Benfica’s Estadio da Luz on 24th May 2014.
