Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich: Breaking Down Keys to Victory for Both Squads

With the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Semifinal match between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich taking place this afternoon, there are a number of story-lines to watch for that will go a long way to determining who will take on Chelsea in the finals. 

As things stand right now, Bayern is up 2-1 following a victory at home on April 17. They can't afford to rest on their laurels right now, so close to a date with Chelsea on May 19. 

Here are the keys to victory for both squads on Wednesday. 

Real Madrid

Be The Aggressor On Offense

It is no secret that Los Blancos' firepower comes from Cristiano Ronaldo, but he can't be the only player getting in on the action if they want to walk away with a victory in this match. 

Mesut Özil was the only one who was able to get a good look at the net in the first leg and he converted in the 53rd minute to tie things 1-1 before a late goal from Mario Gomez put Munich ahead for good.

They have good scorers with Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema, they just need to make sure to dictate the pace and control the ball. 

Don't Let Bayern's Frontline Create Shots

Munich is built on the power of its front line. Ronaldo has come out and said that if they can't contain their front four it will be hard to keep up with them. 

Madrid's defense was outstanding in the first match, at least up until the 89th minute when Gomez did them in. 

By not letting Munich get good looks, it will allow Madrid to set up its offense however it sees fit. When you are behind on aggregate, you have to focus on how many goals you are giving up as much as you do your own offense. 

Bayern Munich's Keys to Victory

Overwhelm Madrid's Defense

Munich loves to spread the ball around in order to keep defenses on their toes. Gomez is their best pure striker, but Franck Ribéry is their best all-around player. 

If Ribéry is able to get out front and either take open shots at the net or set-up his teammates, Madrid is going to be in for a long match. 

Don't Try to Play Conservatively

With one victory over Madrid already in the bag, there could be a temptation for Munich to take their foot off the gas pedal and play not to lose instead of to win. 

That is the easiest way to get in trouble, especially when you are going into enemy territory. Madrid is going to have a sense of urgency and come out firing on all cylinders. 

Munich must be ready to come out and play fast in order to exhaust all of Madrid's energy before putting the nail in their coffin. 

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