Despite many news outlets rating Michael Olise as the top performer for the match on 7/4, it was Neuer who received the man of the match title from the UEFA Technical Observer panel after the final whistle.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper made three successful saves against Kylian Mbappe, two against Vinicius, and one against Brahim Diaz during the 90 minutes. The Bayern captain also rushed out of the penalty area to thwart another Real opportunity. Even when Mbappe scored to make it 2-1 in the 74th minute, Neuer almost made the save, getting a hand to the ball.

Neuer receives the man of the match award for the Real - Bayern Champions League quarter-final first leg on 7/4. *Photo: UEFA*

Neuer's outstanding performance was instrumental in Bayern's 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu. Bayern scored first with Luis Diaz finding the net past Andriy Lunin in the 41st minute, followed by Harry Kane doubling the lead with a long-range shot in the 46th minute.

Bild newspaper highlighted his impact, writing, "Not only in attack, Bayern also displayed world-class quality in goal. Neuer had a great game, featuring many excellent saves."

Legendary Lothar Matthaus suggested Neuer should return to the German national team, advising coach Julian Nagelsmann to consider calling him up for the 2026 World Cup. Neuer had announced his retirement from the national team in 8/2024.

Many on social media even suggested Neuer is rejuvenating, playing better at 40 than at 33 – an age when compatriot Ter Stegen performs like a goalkeeper nearing retirement. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany praised his goalkeeper, saying, "40 is still young. This week, I also turn 40. The saves look easy, but emotionally, those are very difficult moments for a goalkeeper. And that's what we needed today."

Neuer denies a chance from Mbappe. *Photo: Bild*

After the match, Neuer expressed regret that Bayern could not maintain their two-goal lead. He reminded his teammates not to be complacent despite winning the first leg at the Bernabeu. "We know how dangerous Real are. We are happy with this victory, but the task ahead is still very difficult," the goalkeeper added.

The two teams will meet again in the second leg at Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany on 15/4. The advancing team will face the winner of the Liverpool - PSG match in the semi-finals.

Thanh Quy (according to Bild, X)