Karl-Heinz Rummenigge looking to see Bayern Munich take the edge back from Real Madrid

Bayern Munich icon Karl-Heinz Rummenigge believes the next Champions League clash with Real Madrid offers his former club a chance to reclaim the upper hand in European football’s most-played fixture. Speaking to AS, the former striker and long-time club CEO noted that the 29th meeting between the sides will add another chapter to a rivalry that has defined the modern era of the competition.

“It’s the most-played matchup in Champions League history – I looked it up. There have been 28 meetings so far. Madrid have two more wins than us. It’s the same in the UEFA club rankings: they’re first, we’re just behind. It’s the pinnacle, the game of all games, a final before the final. It’s the tie that has generated the most buzz over time,” Rummenigge said, as captured by @iMiaSanMia.

He acknowledged a recent shift in momentum. “In the 2000s we made life hardest for Madrid; lately they’ve taken the edge.” To reverse that trend, Rummenigge urged Bayern to replicate the intensity shown in their league-phase victory over Paris Saint-Germain. “We need to reach the level we showed against PSG in the league phase. In the first half we were outstanding; in the second, after Luis Díaz’s red card, we grew huge defensively. That’s exactly what we’ll need in Madrid. If we can match that level, we’ll have a chance to lay a solid foundation for the return leg.”

Rummenigge stressed that respect, not bravado, will be vital. “Humility is key – we’re facing a massive challenge.”

With 28 previous encounters, bruising tackles, late drama and a combined cabinet of European trophies, the Bayern-Madrid rivalry remains one of the continent’s most compelling subplots. For neutrals and die-hards alike, the upcoming tie promises another installment of high-stakes theatre.