Champions League Semifinals: Where to Watch Bayern vs. Real Madrid

Two European soccer giants are set to clash in a highly anticipated match on Tuesday, as Bayern Munich of Germany plays host to Real Madrid of Spain in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals.

With a combined total of 20 European Cup/Champions League titles between them, both teams are eager to secure a favorable result at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, ahead of the return leg in Spain next week.

Champions League Semifinal Bayern Real Madrid
General view inside the stadium with the champions league emblem before the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg match between FC Bayern München and Real Madrid at Allianz Arena on April 30, 2024 in Munich,... Kevin Voigt/Getty Images

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have crossed paths 26 times in the Champions League, making it the most frequently played fixture in the competition. The head-to-head record is remarkably close, with Bayern winning 12 matches, Real Madrid 11, and three ending in draws.

The Bavarians, having recently surrendered their domestic title, now have their sights set on continental glory. They enter this fixture in fine form, boasting four consecutive victories across all competitions, including a convincing win against Arsenal in the quarter-finals.

German midfielder Jamal Musiala is set to feature in midfield after recovering from injury, while English international Harry Kane is poised to lead the attack, marking his first UEFA Champions League semi-final appearance since missing out on Tottenham's clash with Ajax five years ago.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid, under the guidance of former Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti, are enjoying a stellar season. They are on track to clinch the LaLiga title in Spain and are favored by bookmakers to secure their 15th European crown. Real Madrid are currently on an impressive 18-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.

In attack, England sensation Jude Bellingham will lead alongside Brazilians Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. However, Real Madrid will be without their captain Dani Carvajal due to suspension, with Lucas Vasquez set to deputize at right back.

This marks the first competitive meeting between the two sides since 2018, when Real Madrid emerged as 4-3 aggregate winners in the semi-finals. Tuesday's match is also expected to be closely contested.

The second leg of the semi-final is scheduled for May 8 in Spain, with both teams aiming to secure a favorable position after Tuesday's encounter.

How to watch the first leg semi-final:

In the U.S., the match will be broadcast on CBS or CBS Sports Network at 3 p.m. ET. It will also be streamed live on Paramount+, Fubo, and CBS Sports Golazo.

Univision will provide Spanish-language coverage, with Vix+ offering their streaming service.

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer


Jesus is a Newsweek Live News Reporter based in New York. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, his focus is reporting on ... Read more

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.
Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek magazine delivered to your door
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go
Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go