Ranking the Champions League quarterfinal matchups

Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid CF during the UEFA Champions League match between SSC Napoli and Real Madrid at Stadio San Paolo Naples Italy on 7 March 2017. (Photo by Franco Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid CF during the UEFA Champions League match between SSC Napoli and Real Madrid at Stadio San Paolo Naples Italy on 7 March 2017. (Photo by Franco Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /
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MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 18: Gareth Bale of Real Madrid CF celebrates scoring their second goal during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 18, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 18: Gareth Bale of Real Madrid CF celebrates scoring their second goal during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 18, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) /

1. Bayern Munich vs. Real Madrid

In conclusion, there isn’t a better matchup then Bayern and Real. There are a plethora of story lines to keep an eye on. Carlo Ancelotti returns to face the team he led to a Champions League trophy. Xabi Alonso returns to face his former side. Bayern have a midfield that has the chance to suffocate Madrid’s. Real have an attack that could outshine and outpace Bayern’s defense. There are so many variables and exciting possibilities between the two.

Real Madrid are attempting to win back to back Champions League titles. A feat that puts a mark on their back as they head into the matchup with Bayern. The Bavarian giants are probably the favorites from where I sit. Their defensive tactics and the form of Arjen Robben and Robert Lewandowski make their team nearly unstoppable for most sides. Their difficult has come when an opposing attack is so talented, Barcelona, that they can’t matchup with the scoring pace.

Should the Madrid front three be able to play efficient, fast-paced, and counterattacking soccer they can outpace Bayern. The difficulty Madrid will have is in the midfield. In the center of the park Bayern send out a plethora of stars in Arturo Vidal, Xabi Alonso, and Thiago Alcantara. If Bayern are able to dominate the midfield, they should advance.