Kroos cites Bayern Munich's history of collapse as Real Madrid chase Champions League comeback
Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has suggested Bayern Munich's history of second-leg failures could be a factor in their Champions League quarter-final tie, as the Spanish giants look to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit. According to Marca, the former Bayern and Real Madrid midfielder, who won the Champions League with the Spanish club in 2022, believes the German champions have a history of failing to secure qualification in key moments.
Kroos, speaking in his role as a pundit, was quoted by the Spanish outlet analysing the first leg, which Bayern won 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The German international noted that Bayern have often struggled to maintain their level in decisive second legs against Real Madrid in recent years. "In recent years, Bayern have put in good performances against Real Madrid, but in the second legs they often fail to maintain their level or secure qualification, being affected by small details," Kroos said, according to the report.
The comments from the former Germany international come as Real Madrid prepare for a crucial second leg at the Allianz Arena, with Kylian Mbappe's late goal in the first leg giving the Spanish side a vital away goal and a lifeline in the tie. Kroos, who played for Bayern Munich from 2006 to 2014, suggested that Bayern's inability to kill off the tie at the Bernabeu, where they led 2-0 through Luis Diaz and Harry Kane, could prove costly. He expressed surprise at Bayern's tactical retreat after taking a two-goal lead, a period which allowed Real Madrid back into the tie.
Kroos also reserved high praise for Bayern and German national team goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who made several crucial saves in the first leg. "For me, he's the best (goalkeeper) of all time," Kroos said of his former international teammate. "He's the only goalkeeper who is really fun to watch play. What he does looks great. He still has his own unique style." Neuer's performance will be crucial as Bayern look to protect their narrow lead and avoid another second-leg stumble.
The tie remains finely balanced, with Real Madrid needing to score at least two goals in Munich to have a chance of progressing. The history between the two European giants in this competition is storied, with several dramatic comebacks and late goals defining their past encounters. Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa will be looking to his star forwards, including the goalscorer from the first leg, Kylian Mbappe, to provide the firepower needed for an away victory. The second leg in Munich promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with a place in the Champions League semi-finals on the line.
