Tuchel acknowledges Real Madrid’s pedigree ahead of UCL showdown

Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel says he is aware of the significance and will of Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League ahead of their crucial semi-final first-leg clash at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern Munich edged Arsenal in the quarter-final in a 3-2 aggregate result, while Real Madrid managed to eliminate champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in a penalty shootout.

Speaking in a pre-match conference ahead of the game, Tuchel expressed his respect for Real Madrid’s history, yet indicated that Bayern are in pole position to get a good result.

“We play against Real Madrid we play against the experience, we play against the shirt and the myth but our approach will be very potent.

We are prepared with our tactics sessions and let’s see how it unfolds”, he said.

Tuchel also spoke about the challenge of facing Carlo Ancelotti with his tactical abilities, believing that Madrid’s manager has all the experience behind him to make things happen for his side.

“Well if it is about the game and experiences, then I don’t have a chance against Carlo, he’s a legend.

What Carlo has achieved for football not only as a coach but as a player is incredible”.

Real Madrid are unbeaten in their last seven matches against Bayern in the Champions League knockouts, yet Thomas Tuchel has only one defeat in his last six games against Madrid, promising an intense fixture on Tuesday night.

For Bayern and Tuchel, the competition provides them a lifeline to save their season having already missed out on domestic titles.