How Bayern Munich should line up to beat Real Madrid

Bayern Munich are set to host Real Madrid today in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash. This will be the 7th meeting between the two sides in this stage of the competition.

The Spanish giants have had the upper hand against their German opponents. Los Blancos have won 5 times and would want to seal the tie tonight.

Jupp Heynckes' pre-match talk:

Speaking to the media ahead of the semi-final tie, the Bayern Munich manager said, “Both of our teams will provide us with attractive football. There are big players and it will be an open game. For me there is no favourite but I have a good feeling.”

“We have had success in the Bundesliga, reached the final of the cup and we want to cap that with the final of the Champions League. I have some great memories in the Champions League, 1998 for example. It was a fantastic feeling when the whislte went and Real were European champions again. It was a big moment but I do not like to look back, I live in the present. It's a wonderful privilege to have had success in my career and to reach the semi-finals. Hopefully the final against one of my old clubs, Real Madrid.” added the manager.

Team News:

David Alaba did not take part in Tuesday's final training session. He has reportedly suffered a thigh strain and is set for a late fitness test. Manuel Neuer in back in training but is not expected to start today.

How Bayern Munich should line up:

Sven Ulreich; Joshua Kimmich, Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels, Juan Bernat; Javi Martinez, James Rodriguez, Thiago Alcantara, Arjen Robben, Thomas Muller; Robert Lewandowski.

4-2-3-1 is the ideal formation for the Bundesliga side today as this will help them at both ends of the field.