Manuel Neuer praises Bayern Munich for taking their chances among mistakes

MUNICH, GERMANY - APRIL 15: Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich celebrates his team's first goal scored by teammate Aleksandar Pavlovic (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Real Madrid CF at Football Arena Munich on April 15, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images

Bayern Munich faltered in the first minute of play after Manuel Neuer’s wayward pass found the feet of Arda Güler who made no mistakes dispatching his long-range shot into the back of an empty net. It was destined to be another one of those nights against Real Madrid. However, Bayern produced a swift response, scoring just five minutes later as Joshua Kimmich’s corner found the head of Aleksandar Pavlović, who headed home from close range. It looked like Bayern had earned redemption, but two more silly mistakes resulted in Real Madrid carrying a 3-2 lead into half time.

The game stabilized in the second half, and Bayern secured control of what had been a chaotic affair. Die Rekordmeister did well to pressure Madrid, eventually taking advantage of their momentum through two late goals from Luis Díaz and Michael Olise — redemption.

Manuel Neuer admitted his side made a lot of mistakes, one of which the 40-year-old shot-stopper held full responsibility for, but did particularly well to execute their chances.

“It was a big Champions League night, for us players, for fans and neutrals,” said the Bayern captain (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “We kept our calm and stayed in the game after the goals we conceded. We waited for our chance and in the end made it 3-3 and 4-3. I think it was a deserved win.”

Bayern committed a number of unnecessary mistakes but, in contrast to their 2-1 victory at the Bernabéu last week, took advantage of their opportunities in the final third. That proved to be the crux earning Bayern victory in both away and home legs against Madrid for the first time in 25 years.

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

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