Former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich manager Jupp Heynckes is backing the Bavarian side to defeat Los Blancos and reach the final of the Champions League for the second consecutive year.
The 68-year-old guided Munich to an historic treble last season, including the Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley. Now managed by Pep Guardiola, the Bundesliga champions, who retained their crown with seven league games remaining, are favourites to become the first team to win back-to-back Champions League in 24 years.
Speaking to French sports paper L’Equipe, Heynckes said Bayern have the psychological edge over Los Blancos having beaten then on penalties at the same stage two years ago. He added the poor performance by Madrid against Dortmund in the quarter-final second leg could also play on their minds.
“It’s the European clasico. Among the three opponents Bayern could have faced, Madrid is the best for them, even if — in Carlo Ancelotti — they have a very experienced coach who is very good tactically,” he said.
And he added: “Given their attacking potential, I’m convinced Bayern are going to score at the Bernabeu. And after seeing Madrid’s display in the return leg in Dortmund, I say this team is vulnerable.”
One man who is backing Los Blancos though is ex-boss Fabio Capello. Speaking to Eurosport, the Italian, who won two La Liga titles with the club, said Carlo Ancelotti has the tactical expertise to see off Munich.
“Everybody knows I support Real Madrid and I think they’re favourites for the Champions League. They’ve got the best squad with a great coach who knows what he wants and manages to give all of his players the tranquillity they need to express themselves on the field,” Capello said.
