In the first leg last week, Real Madrid lost 1-2 to Bayern at home at the Bernabeu. To stage a comeback and advance to the semi-finals, the Spanish team must secure a victory by at least one goal in Munich.

Mbappe's Real (white jersey) lost 1-2 to Bayern in the Champions League quarter-final first leg in Madrid on 7/4. *Photo: Reuters*

Beyond the Champions League challenge, Real Madrid also faces adversity in the domestic league. In the recent La Liga round 31, coach Alvaro Arbeloa's team was held to a 1-1 draw by Girona, leaving them 9 points behind league leaders Barca. Without a miracle, they will struggle to prevent their rivals from defending the title in the final seven rounds.

However, according to Valdano, the difficulties in La Liga could serve as a powerful motivation for Real Madrid to advance further in the Champions League. Should this occur, the second leg against Bayern could prove to be the pivotal moment for the team to turn their season around.

"I see a bright future for Arbeloa's team, and I do not rule out the possibility of a comeback in Munich. When in a state of despair in La Liga, that is when Real Madrid demonstrates its best form in the Champions League," stated Valdano, who played for Real from 1984 to 1987 and coached the team during 1994-1996.

Valdano also suggested that the recent 1-1 draw with Girona was merely a temporary setback, occurring when Real Madrid was somewhat demoralized. He assessed that his former team played dominantly, created numerous opportunities, and deserved to win.

Real Madrid currently holds the record with 15 European Cup/Champions League titles. Notably, they secured the trophy 10 times without also winning the La Liga title in the same season. The 2013-2014 season serves as a prime example, when Real finished third in La Liga but crushed Bayern 5-0 in the Champions League semi-finals before defeating Atletico 4-1 in the final.

Real Madrid has a historical record of 12 wins, 4 draws, and 13 losses in 29 matches against Bayern. However, in their last four visits to Munich, the Spanish team has secured three victories and one draw. If they successfully stage a comeback in the match on the evening of 15/4, Real will advance to the semi-finals to face the winner of the Liverpool - PSG tie.

Thanh Quy (according to Marca, UEFA)