Germany’s No 1 team Bayern Munich, led by Carlo Ancelotti, fought it out with Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, yesterday night in a fiercely fought contest. Robert Lewandoski’s wonderful free kick from 18 yards out in the 28th minute tilted the game in Bayern’s favour.
Atletico Madrid’s attack led by Antoine Griezman and Yannick Carrasco failed to break down an impressive Bayern Munich defence consisting of Mats Hummels and David Alaba as centre backs.
However, the footballing fans who missed the clash need not dampen their spirits as the battle between the two footballing countries will be fought out again tonight. Real Madrid spearheaded by Zinedine Zidane take on Borussia Dortmund marshalled by Thomas Tuchel in an exciting contest which promises to be an edge of the seat thriller.
Also read: Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund combined XI
The German outfit knocked Los Blancos out of the Champions league in 2013 when Jurgen Klopp unleashed Robert Lewandoski on an unsuspecting Madrid defence. The Spaniards got their revenge in the succeeding year, going on to win the Champions League.
With both the clubs aiming for that glorious win which will ensure a top of the table finish, let’s take a look at the 3 key areas where the game will be won or lost.
#1 Sergio Ramos vs Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
The clash between Sergio Ramos and Aubameyang is one of the key battles the fans will be looking forward to with bated breath.
Ramos has been in good form for Madrid which has been a key factor behind their success in the La Liga this season. The tall center back headed in the equaliser in their recently fought out clash against fierce rivals Barcelona which saved them the blushes. Ramos, who was linked with a move away from Bernabeu last season, has been rock solid in the heart of the defence and will be looking to continue this run against Borrusia Dortmund.
Aubameyang has been in sublime form for Dortmund this season scoring 19 goals in 19 appearances. His form has been the saving grace in a disappointing Bundesliga campaign with the side currently 6th in the table. The Gabonese striker was recently linked with a move to Bernabeu in the summer window.
Having made no secret of his love for the La Liga leaders he will be looking at this clash as an opportunity to impress and win over their hearts.
The battle between the two will be extremely crucial in determining the fortunes of the game. Ramos will be looking to keep him quiet for 90 minutes as the striker has the ability to cause an explosion in the enemy defence if let loose.
#2 Luka Modric vs Julian Weigl
The battle between the Croatian midfield supremo and the young talented German who was recently linked with a move to Real Madrid promises to be an intensely fought one .
Modric, who has been Real Madrid’s midfield maestro all these years drawing comparisons to Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, will be looking to give fans another glimpse of his immense class and abilities. His free kick was perfectly glided into the box gifting Ramos an easy opportunity to score in the recently held El Clasico.
He will be looking to deliver a similar performance in the Champions League clash by developing the gameplay from the midfield and using his creativity to create goal scoring opportunities for his side.
Weigl has been one of the most impressive German talents to emerge from 1860 Munich. His gameplay even at the tender age of 21 is extremely mature and creative. Weigl was scouted by Madrid in the summer recently with Zidane looking to snap up a reliable backup for Casemiro. However, the youngster decided to stay loyal and enjoy consistent game time at the German club instead.
It is said that games are won and lost in the midfield. Weigl will be looking to impress Tuchel and deliver a performance which cements his reputation as one of the most exciting youngsters in the game. Modric will be looking to use all his experience to break down the resolute, sturdy Dortmund defence led by familiar foe Marc Bartra and create goal-scoring opportunities for Cristiano Ronaldo and co.
#3 Lukas Piszczek vs Cristiano Ronaldo
Lukas Piszczek has been one of Bundesliga’s star defenders over the years. His performances have earned him the title of “Mr. Dependable” with the Polish full-back having rejected interest from top Premier League and Bundesliga clubs over the years instead preferring to stay loyal to Dortmund.
After making a move on a free transfer Piszczek has impressed fans and experts with his solid gameplay and sublime intensity. He now faces the unenviable responsibility of marking Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo who has been nothing short of lethal in front of goal over the years.
Cristiano Ronaldo faces the added responsibility of ensuring that the attack does not lose fizz in the absence of Gareth Bale. He has scored 12 goals this season and will be looking to increase this tally at home.
Lionel Messi has been extremely impressive for Barcelona in the recent few games and as judgment day gets closer, the race for the Ballon d’Or will get tougher. Ronaldo will be looking to deliver a sublime performance tonight which will further cement his reputation as the most deserving candidate to win the golden trophy this year.
Real Madrid have been known to fizzle out when the Portuguese experiences an off-day on the pitch. Luckily for them, this has been extremely rare. Piszczek will be looking to ensure that today is one of those rare days.
You can follow the game here – Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund Live Score and Commentary
