Bayern and Real to clash in epic Champions League semifinal

LONDON: Holders Bayern Munich and nine-time winners Real Madrid will face each other in the Champions League semifinals this month, following Friday’s draw in Nyon, Switzerland.
In the other semifinal, surprise Spanish league leaders Atletico Madrid, the only one of the last four not to have won the title, will be up against Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea – the 2012 winners.
Real Madrid and Atletico will both be at home in the first legs taking place on April 22-23.
“What can I say? Bayern is an extraordinary organisation, one of the most prestigious teams in the world and the current champions,” Real director Emilio Butragueno said on Spanish television broadcaster Canal Plus.
“They have an extraordinary team both collectively and individually and without doubt they will be an extraordinary opponent for us.
“But it’s the fourth semifinals in a row for us and we are hopeful of making the final.
“We know it will be very tough but we have confidence in our players.”
Bayern are looking to become the first team to win the Champions League in its present form back-to-back, while Real are seeking to end a long wait to continue their collection having last won it in 2002.
Chelsea are in the semifinals for the seventh time in 11 seasons.
They beat Bayern in the 2012 final to crush the hopes of the home fans, with the final played in Munich. (Reuters)